F1 testing: Pirelli reveals programme for 2017 tyre development

The Italian manufacturer has confirmed there will be 10 sessions spread over 24 days, with Ferrari, Red Bull and Mercedes splitting the work over the first nine tests before running together in Abu Dhabi at the end of November.

For the first test on August 1-2, Ferrari's Fiorano test circuit will be artificially dampened in order to carry out tests with both the intermediate and full-wet tyres using a modified 2015 car, before Ferrari then turns its attention to slick tyres at a two-day test at Barcelona on September 6-7.

On August 3-4, Red Bull will test the slick rubber at Mugello, with Mercedes at Paul Ricard across five days in September, 6-8 and 21-22, running the rule over the slicks at the first test and wets at the second.

Further tests involving all three teams will take place in Abu Dhabi during October and November, with each team enjoying seven days of individual testing apiece.

The three teams are obliged to share all the data gathered during these tests with the other teams for reasons of sporting equity.

The modified 2015 cars are supplied to a precise specification established by the FIA that simulates the performance anticipated for next year, principally including more downforce, a wider track and bigger tyres.

The front tyre grows in size by 60mm, going from 245 to 305mm, with the rear tyre increasing by 80mm, from 325 to 405mm.

Tyre testing with 2012, '13 or '14-specification cars, using the current tyre size but with prototype materials and structures for 2017, has been taking place since May.

The programme began with Ferrari at Fiorano, continued in June with Red Bull at Paul Ricard, with Mercedes due to run a 2014 car next week during the two-day in-season test at Silverstone.

Further tests with such cars will be carried out by Ferrari on July 16, assessing the intermediate and full-wet tyres, with Red Bull at Vallelunga on July 18-19 for slicks.