Pirelli's new medium slicks being tested by racers in the UK

Pirelli is equipping this year's GP2 drivers with its P Zero medium slicks during the first pre-season test, which runs through April 6 at Silversto ne in the United Kingdom. Pirelli is equipping this year’s GP2 drivers with its P Zero medium slicks during the first pre-season test, which runs through April 6 at Silverstone in the United Kingdom.

The next test will take place in Barcelona from April 18- 20, with Pirelli supplying hard compound slicks.

“We decided to bring our medium and hard compound tires to Silverstone and Barcelona, respectively, because of the demanding features of these different circuits – which are very challenging for the rubber,” explains Mario Isola, Pirelli’s racing manager.

“First of all, we’re giving drivers our medium slicks at Silverstone because both resistance and versatility are needed there due to the unpredictable weather conditions we may have to face. This makes Silverstone ideal territory for the medium tire,” he says.

“The hard slicks, by contrast,” notes Isola, “are an excellent solution for Barcelona, where we foresee hotter track conditions. The hard compound is a tire designed to provide the maximum endurance in the toughest conditions so is best suited to demanding tracks with a fast and technical succession of corners such as Barcelona.”

The GP2 drivers have already had their first taste of newly-developed Pirelli tires in medium compound specification during the 2011 GP2 Asia Series. With only one month left to go before the main GP2 Series starts, the forthcoming tests will be crucial for teaching drivers how to properly manage their new tires, he reports.

The 2011 GP2 season will feature nine rounds supporting Formula One grand prix events in Europe, starting at the beginning of May in Istanbul and ending in mid-September with the Monza race in Italy.

Throughout the year, Pirelli will supply 14,500 tires to the GP2 Series, tests included. Four types of dry weather tire (hard, medium, soft and supersoft compounds) and one type of wet weather tire will be provided, with four sets of slicks and, if needed, three sets of wets for each car per event.

For more information, visit www.us.pirelli.com.