Spectators allowed at trial grandstand
The official Formula 1 tyre supplier Pirelli began an intensive two-day tyre test at the Nürburgring today. One car from each of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team and the McLaren Formula 1 Team was in action.
At the wheel were two current full-time drivers, George Russell (Mercedes) and Oscar Piastri (McLaren), who carried out important development work for upcoming tyre generations. Both drivers completed numerous runs to evaluate different compounds and constructions under realistic conditions.
The Eifel once again showed its changeable side, allowing both dry and slightly damp track conditions to be included in the data collection. Particularly valuable for Pirelli: insights into grip levels, tyre wear, and temperature windows under varying conditions.
In contrast to many other test sessions, spectators were also allowed at the Nürburgring this time. In the so-called trial grandstand – the lower section of the opened main grandstand – fans were able to follow the action on site. The admission price was just three euros, offering motorsport enthusiasts a rare insight into the otherwise non-public testing procedures of Formula 1.
The test is part of Pirelli’s ongoing development programme in cooperation with the FIA and the teams and serves as a replacement for the cancelled F1 tyre test in Bahrain. The data collected flows directly into the further development of tyres for future seasons.
With the combination of high-profile drivers, established top teams, and a fan-accessible setup, the first day of testing at the Nürburgring offered added value both in sporting terms and for spectators on site.