After a spectacular British Grand Prix last weekend, Pirelli was back on track at Silverstone for two days of testing, aimed at development of the 2026 tyres.
The task of collaborating on this complex and important phase of preparation for next season fell to Aston Martin, who were the first team to test the prototype tyres on track last September in Barcelona, this time joined by Sauber, who were trying this type of tyre for the very first time.
Two Brazilians were driving today: Felipe Drugovich was behind the wheel of the Aston Martin AMR25, while Gabriel Bortoleto was driving the Sauber C45. Both cars were specially adapted to suit the 2026 tyres, which are 25 millimetres narrower at the front and 30 at the rear.
Today’s work focused mainly on a comparison of the latest constructions prior to their being homologated, which is scheduled for this coming 1 September. Drugovich completed 112 laps, the quickest in 1’30”119 and Bortoleto did 110, the best being a 1’ 1’31’’341.
Testing continues tomorrow with Sauber’s young Brazilian still driving, while Canada’s Lance Stroll takes over at Aston Martin.
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