Pirelli is to begin testing its new tyres at Mugello tomorrow, ahead of its return to Formula One for the 2011 season.

Pirelli will conduct its test programme using a 2009 Toyota TF109 and Mercedes GP reserve driver Nick Heidfeld is expected to drive.

Reports say that Toyota and Pirelli have already arrived at Mugello but that the two day test will not begin until tomorrow.

Pirelli beat off competition from Michelin to become the official F1 tyre supplier from 2011.

The FIA confirmed Pirelli has a three-year contract to supply tyres to Formula 1:

Pirelli has been selected as the single tyre supplier for the FIA Formula One World Championship for a period of three years, commencing in 2011. The sole supplier will undertake to strictly respect the sporting and technical regulations implemented by the FIA.

Pirelli will supply four types of dry weather tyre plus intermediate and wet weather tyres, as Bridgestone currently do.

There are no changes expected in the rules under which drivers have a choice of two compounds during a race weekend and must use one of each during the race.

Pirelli says it expects a ?���?�realistic and collaborative approach with all the teams, ensuring that manufacturing and logistical costs are shared fairly.?���?�

It also has ?���?�a firm eye on the future, as in full collaboration with all the teams, research into innovative new tyre developments is a vital part of this exciting programme.?���?�

This may refer to an expected change to 18-inch wheels in 2013, bringing F1 closer into line with typical wheel sizes seen on the road.

The Italian tyre manufacturer last supplied F1 teams in 1991. Tyrrell, Brabham, Dallara and Benetton used its products while the rest of the field were supplied by Goodyear.

Nelson Piquet scored the last win for a car on Pirelli tyres in the 1991 Canadian Grand Prix. He inherited the win when Nigel Mansell?������s Williams broke down on the last lap.

More to follow

Image (C) Pirelli & C S.p.A.