Formula 2’s rule convergence with Formula 1 will expand to the introduction of 18 inch Pirelli tyres next year, a season before F1 introduces the same concept.
The junior category will effectively be used as a testbed for the tyres ahead of their F1 debuts, despite the Dallara F2 2018 producing considerably less downforce and thus load than a modern day F1 car.
Testing has already got underway with the new tyres, with a shakedown taking place at Mugello in Italy on Wednesday.
?The FIA Formula 2 championship marks the final step in young drivers? careers as they strive to achieve a place in Formula 1, and with these plans to introduce, test and develop a new tyre profile next season ahead of its introduction into F1, we are showing that Formula 2 is not only the place to prove the top driving talent, but also the latest technologies,” said FIA Single-Seater Commission president Stefano Domenicali.
“Former F2 drivers have been very impressive so far in the 2019 F1 season, and the more we can make Formula 2 aligned with the technical and sporting philosophies of Formula 1 the better prepared young drivers will be to come and take on motor sport?s top challenge.?
The top three from the 2018 F2 standings graduated to F1 this year, with championship runner-up and third place Lando Norris and Alexander Albon having already scored points. Reigning F2 champion George Russell has finished no better than 15th, although is driving the slowest car on the grid at Williams.
F1’s chief technical officer Pat Symonds added: “F2 has already proven to be the best possible feeder series for young rising talents who aspire to succeed in F1 and now it?s going to used as a feeder for technology.
“It?s a great opportunity for our sport that the tyre development for 2021 can be done not only during bespoke testing but also in a racing environment. The amount of data that Pirelli and F2 will be able to collect in the next 16 months will be very important for the next generation of F1 tyres.?
Pirelli’s head of car racing Mario Isola commented: “This move will assist us greatly as we develop a new generation of Formula 1 tyres for 2021, and also benefit next year?s Formula 2 drivers themselves as they gain early experience of the future tyre size in Formula 1.”