FOTA poised to finalise 2012 Formula 1 testing plans

As AUTOSPORT previously reported, outfits have agreed to change the testing schedule for next year, with the aim of three pre-season tests and one during the campaign itself. Efforts are now being focused on getting agreement for a firm schedule.

The matter is understood to be high on the agenda for a meeting of the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) that is planned for Sunday morning.

Sources have revealed that teams have already agreed the timetable for the pre-season tests, with the first run of 2012 set to take place at Jerez on February 7, followed by tests at Barcelona a fortnight later and another test there the following week.

The main issue now is sorting out the location of timing of the in-season test, with teams preferring to slot it in before the start of the European phase of the 2012 season, which is currently the Spanish Grand Prix on May 13.

Possible locations for the test include Mugello, Silverstone and Jerez - although no venue has yet emerged as a clear favourite.

Teams are also likely to have further discussions about the 2012 calendar proposal put to them by Bernie Ecclestone recently. It is understood that one possibility being looked at now is for the teams to ask for the Chinese GP (April 8) and Indian GP (April 22) dates to be switched for logistical reasons.