Test gap shows fear of F1 tyre espionage - report

The schedule for next week’s post-season testing in Abu Dhabi shows a fear of technological espionage, according to a report.

Auto Hebdo claims it is no mistake that a full day has been left between next week’s two days of young driver testing (Tuesday-Wednesday) and the first running on Pirelli tyres on Friday and Saturday.

According to the French report, Thursday has been excluded from the on-track schedule so that F1’s departing tyre supplier Bridgestone can pack up and leave no trace of its technological secrets for the incoming Pirelli.

The initial young driver running will take place with Bridgestone tyres, before the F1 teams get their first taste of next year’s Pirelli products later next week.

Auto Hebdo concluded that any "collaboration between Bridgestone and Pirelli, mentioned a few months ago, is decidedly not on the agenda" now.

"It’s been a great time with Bridgestone," said F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone in Abu Dhabi.

"After so many years with them here, they will be missed, but I thing that Pirelli are able to take over completely."