Reduction in testing confirmed for 2016

Although it had been written in the sporting regulations last year, 2016 will see a further reduction in testing.

This season we saw the usual three season tests in Spain, with a further two through the season in Spain and Austria. That was a reduction on last year where we saw four in season tests.

2016 will see the amount of testing heavily reduced, with just two preseason test in Barcelona. These are due to take place on the 1-4 and 15-18 March, a couple of weeks later than usual thanks to the later start to the season in Australia.

Testing has been a way for teams to run their reserve drivers, and we even used to see a ‘Young Drivers Test’ at Silverstone. If the rules stay the same for next season, their role could be much reduced. A way to incorporate young and test drivers during a race weekend is currently being developed, and could form the basis of the suggested Saturday afternoon sprint race.

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