Spanish Grand Prix – Formula 2 will switch to larger wheels and lower profile tyres next season, as the FIA gears up for F1’s switch the following season. From the beginning of next season, Formula 2 cars will race with 18 inch wheels and Pirelli tyres. This is due to the need to begin development and testing of these before introduction in Formula 1 in 2021. Testing of the tyres has already begun with an F2 car, with a shakedown taking place at Mugello on Wednesday. Speaking at a special press conference in Barcelona, Stefano Domenicali (President of the FIA’s Single Seater Commission) said: “The FIA Formula 2 Championship marks the final step in young drivers’ careers as they strive to achieve a place in Formula 1, and with these plans to introduce, test and develop a new tyre profile next season ahead of its introduction into F1, we are showing that Formula 2 is not only the place to prove the top driving talent, but also the latest technologies. Former F2 drivers have been very impressive so far in the 2019 F1 season, and the more we can make Formula 2 aligned with the technical and sporting philosophies of Formula 1 the better prepared young drivers will be to come and take on motor sport’s top challenge.” Mario Isola from Pirelli welcomed the announcement by saying: “We are delighted to introduce 18-inch tyres to grand prix weekends next season, a full year before they race in Formula 1, as the next chapter of our pioneering and proactive partnership with Formula 2. This move will assist us greatly as we develop a new generation of Formula 1 tyres for 2021, and also benefit next year’s Formula 2 drivers themselves as they gain early experience of the future tyre size in Formula 1.” Isola went on to confirm that Formula 1 intends to begin testing the 18 inch tyres with Formula 1 teams later this year, with special tests set to begin in September. The intention is to run three two day tests between September and the end of the season before prolific testing begins in earnest next season. The change to 18 inch tyres is aimed to be part of a sweeping rule change for 2021, with Pirelli winning the new tender for tyre supply until the end of 2023. Want the latest Formula 1, Formula E & IndyCar news sent directly to you? Subscribe here!
From next season, Formula 2 drivers will race with 18-inch Formula 1 tyres, 12 months before their adoption in Formula 1. The top-flight racers will begin testing the bigger, lower-profile tyres later this year. The move is among several motor sports rule changes scheduled for 2021.