Monza to host next Pirelli tire test, no Paul Ricard

UPDATE (GMM) Paul Ricard will host Pirelli's next formula one tire development test.

After the Italian marque began its 2011 program with a shakedown at Mugello last week, it was reported that test driver Nick Heidfeld and last year's Toyota car are now en route to Monza.

But according to Italy's 422race.com, the high speed venue of the Italian grand prix will actually host the third test, with Paul Ricard's configurable test track in Le Castellet to in fact be Pirelli's host next week.

The Monza test will reportedly take place on 21 and 22 September; a little more than a week after the Italian grand prix there.

It is expected that Jerez in Spain will also host a closed Pirelli test, before all the teams run the tires for the first time in Abu Dhabi after November's season finale.

422race.com said that at Mugello last week, observers outside the Italian venue reported that Heidfeld recorded more than 100 laps on both test days.

08/20/10 (GMM) The next Pirelli tire test will reportedly take place at Monza. Both are in Italy so it makes sense.

The Italian marque kicked off its 2011 tire development program this week, with Nick Heidfeld at the wheel of last year's Toyota at Ferrari-owned Mugello.

It was believed the next test would take place at Jerez, but Finland's Turun Sanomat said the outing will actually be at Monza, the high speed circuit that annually hosts the Italian grand prix.

Paul Ricard has also been mentioned as likely forthcoming Pirelli test venues.

The next outing will take place next week.

Pirelli has also confirmed reports that all the current F1 teams will get their first taste of the 2011 tires at a test in Abu Dhabi following November's season ending race.