Red Bull and McLaren's Pirelli test is curtailed by rain

Pirelli

F1 News

Pirelli F1 test with Red Bull and McLaren curtailed by rain
9 October at 11:00
  • Nicole Mulder

Red Bull Racing and McLaren were unable to complete the scheduled Pirelli tyre test at the Mugello Circuit due to heavy rain. On Wednesday, Liam Lawson, Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc are scheduled to complete some mileage and record data for Pirelli.

Pirelli test hampered by the rain

Mercedes test driver Mick Schumacher previously had his Pirelli test day hampered by wet conditions. On Tuesday, heavy rain hit the track again. Poor visibility prevented the emergency helicopter from taking off so drivers could not complete the planned session.

Two different programmes were scheduled. Lawson, fulfilling his role as a reserve driver at Red Bull Racing for the last time before stepping into the VCARB car in Austin following Daniel Ricciardo's departure, was due to be testing the 2025 F1 tyres. Norris, in turn, was due to use prototypes of the tyres that will be used in Formula 1 in the 2026 season.

The prototypes have the same diameter (18 inches) as the current tyres, but the width and outer diameter are slightly smaller on both the front and rear axles. Weather permitting, testing will resume on Wednesday. The same two teams and drivers will be on the track. Leclerc will also be present on behalf of Ferrari.

This article has been created in collaboration with Matt Gretton