Belgian GP: 'External cut' caused Nico Rosberg tyre blow - Pirelli
Pirelli has determined there to be no structural integrity issue with its Formula 1 tyres following Nico Rosberg's spectacular failure during Friday's second Belgian Grand Prix practice session
The Italian manufacturer has conducted a full investigation following the incident that occurred with 30 minutes of practice two remaining at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit.
Approaching Blanchimont, the right-rear tyre on Rosberg's Mercedes exploded, sending the German into a spin, with the 30-year-old conceding it was more by luck than skill he managed to stay out of a wall.
Replays seemed to suggest a blister eventually started to fray and eventually resulted in the tyre shredding off the wheel.
Pirelli claims the incident is consistent with an external cut in the tyre structure.
A Pirelli statement read: "After a full investigation which continued overnight into the issue which affected Nico Rosberg's Mercedes yesterday, these are the conclusions.
"There are no signs of structural integrity issue of the tyre, neither on other tyres used by Mercedes nor on tyres used on other vehicles.
"Video footage shows a tyre problem on Rosberg's car which is consistent with an external cut into the tyre structure.
"Quality data check on other tyres has shown no anomalies."
Pirelli motorsport director Paul Hembery said: "We have conducted a thorough investigation to find out exactly what happened with Nico's tyre.
"This investigation now excludes any structural integrity issues.
"Based on the information and data available an external source of damage is the conclusion made."
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