Formula 1 teams will get their first opportunity to test the new 2014 Pirelli tyres at the weekend after the Italian supplier gained the necessary permission to issue teams with a few sets each.
With the new engine regulations resulting in an increased amount of torque going through the rears, Pirelli has had to change the structure and compound to cope.
With the in-season testing ban, Pirelli has been granted permission by the FIA to give each driver two sets to try during FP1 and FP2 at the season finale in Brazil.
Pirelli is hoping to learn a great deal from the test – but it will only yield useful data if the sessions remain dry, which currently looks unlikely.
