The row over the “private” test which Mercedes carried out for Pirelli has
dominated the headlines over the last couple of weeks. My rule has always
been that I only get involved in things I can influence, but in general
terms, it is clear that any track time will be of benefit to a team,
particularly when they use their current race drivers in a current car. For
Mercedes to have claimed otherwise was disingenuous. But anyone claiming
they will not be hurt by missing the forthcoming young driver test is also
missing the point. I thought it a fair punishment given the circumstances.
Race times and television
Saturday Qualifying 1pm
Sunday Race 1pm
Qualifying Live on BBC1 and Sky Sports F1
Race TV: Live on BBC1 and Sky Sports F1
Weather
Cloudy but dry