Lotus F1 reserves Pirelli testing for Räikkönen

Romain Grosjean will therefore be absent from the tire tests scheduled at Silverstone from July 17 to 19. The teams having the possibility of lining up their regular drivers for a day of testing with the new tires that Pirelli will bring from the Hungaroring on July 28, Lotus F1 Team preferred to optimize Kimi Räikkönen's chances. The 2007 world champion is in fact in the fight for the title, his new podium won at the Nürburgring having allowed him to come back to seven points behind Fernando Alonso. The Frenchman will therefore have the task of discovering the new tires during free practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

“Our goal for day three will be to help Pirelli understand the latest changes made to their tires on the same track where they have had the most serious problems this season”, explains Alan Permanente, director of track operations.

Concerning the young driver tests, Lotus F1 Team will field its Nicolas test drivers Cheers and Davide Valsecchi. “For (them), it will be an opportunity to learn and progress, as the team looks to validate the latest developments of the E21”, recalls Alan Permanente.