29.01.2025
On January 29th, 2025, McLaren drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris participated in the much-anticipated Pirelli 2026 wet and intermediate tyre testing at the Circuit Paul Ricard in France. This event marked the first time that the two drivers were seen in action in their race cars since the conclusion of last season, generating excitement among fans and experts alike, eager to see the progress McLaren has made over the winter.
Oscar Piastri kicked off the testing on the first day, completing a solid 120 laps. His fastest lap time during the session was 1:08.123, which demonstrated his growing confidence as he continues to adapt to his McLaren F1 car. The conditions on track were carefully engineered to simulate a wet environment, with water tanks and sprinklers strategically placed around the circuit to ensure the surface was sufficiently damp for testing the wet and intermediate tyres. However, as the weather took a turn and actual rain started falling on the track, it caused some disruption to the schedule. Despite this unexpected challenge, the testing proceeded as planned, and McLaren’s commitment to the test remained steadfast.
The testing session continued the following day, January 30th, with Lando Norris taking over behind the wheel of the McLaren. Norris completed 123 laps and posted a slightly quicker time of 1:07.956, edging out Piastri by just a split-second. This tight margin between the two McLaren teammates highlighted their competitiveness and skill, suggesting that both are in excellent form as they prepare for the upcoming season. The weather remained unpredictable, but the team pressed on, collecting valuable data that would help Pirelli refine the new wet and intermediate tyres for the 2026 season.
Mario Isola, Pirelli's director of motorsport, provided further insight into the test’s significance. He remarked on the results, saying:
“We have a further two test sessions in the coming two weeks. Both of them are in Spain and will focus on dry weather tyres.”
This comment pointed to the next phase of testing, where Pirelli will focus on gathering data for the dry-weather tyres, an equally important element of their preparations for 2026. As Pirelli works towards perfecting these tyres, McLaren and other teams will play a crucial role in providing feedback, helping the manufacturer meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving sport
The week following the test saw even more activity from McLaren, as well as other top teams. On February 4th and 5th, both Ferrari and McLaren were scheduled to continue their tyre testing at the renowned Barcelona-Catalunya Circuit. This track is a key venue for testing due to its varied corners and technical demands, making it an ideal location for teams to evaluate the performance of their cars with Pirelli’s latest tyres. McLaren’s presence at the test demonstrated their ongoing commitment to refining both their car and their tyre understanding ahead of the 2025 season.
Indeed, Formula 1 is returning sooner than we thought, with teams already showing a level of preparation that suggests the 2025 season is going to be one for the books. As McLaren and their competitors continue to test and refine their setups, one thing is certain: the upcoming season will bring an exciting new chapter to the sport.