Mercedes and Pirelli complete extensive F1 test

George Russell drove at the Silverstone circuit on the second and last day of the Pirelli tests. The Mercedes driver was allowed to test the tires for wet conditions and made significant mileage.

The tests, conducted at Silverstone, are important for Pirelli and Formula 1. The wet weather tires were extensively tested, preparing them for the next F1 season in 2026. Mercedes provided the car and driver once again.

Russell took the helm of Mercedes' 2024 car, the W15. The prototype tires, tested under various wet conditions, were put to the test over 80 laps around the circuit.

The circuit was drenched thoroughly with water, allowing the Mercedes driver to complete 80 laps or 481 kilometres around the Silverstone circuit.

There is much talk about Pirelli's rain tires, as was also seen in Miami. The 'full wets' were unsatisfactory, with several drivers crashing or missing a turn before the race began. With the data gathered, Pirelli's rain tires should work better under rainy conditions in 2026.

Following the two days of Mercedes, Pirelli reports that the Racing Bulls will undertake the next test. On 3-4 June, Red Bull's sister team will be in action at the Barcelona circuit in preparation for the following Formula 1 season. Ferrari will perform the next wet tire test at its own Fiorano circuit on 20 June, using a special rain system to create the right conditions.