Pirelli conducted a two-day tyre test at Suzuka with the assistance of Red Bull and Racing Bulls. Poor weather in the region gave Pirelli the perfect opportunity to test its wet compounds. Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar were behind the wheels of their cars for the first day. Overnight rain allowed Pirelli to test the full wet tyres, which included sets with a different tread pattern compared to the one currently used. As the circuit dried, focus shifted to the intermediate tyres in the afternoon before heavy rain ended the session. Hadjar remained in the car for the second day of the test, despite rumours that Yuki Tsunoda would get behind the wheel, while Arvid Lindblad piloted the Racing Bulls car. Drier conditions allowed for some slick running in the morning before rain arrived at the circuit. There was some minor drama, as Lindblad suffered a small crash during the session, damaging his front wing.
This is just the first of three Pirelli tyre tests planned for April, as the tyre manufacturer plans to take advantage of a month without racing. Ferrari will be helping the company with another wet tyre test around the private Ferrari-owned Fiorano Circuit this week. Mercedes and McLaren will be in action the following week for a dry tyre test at the Nurburgring.
Buenos Aires is looking to get the Argentina Grand Prix back on the F1 calendar, as representatives plan to meet with F1 executives in Miami. The country last hosted a Formula One race in 1998 at the Autodromo Oscar y Juan Galvez, which is currently undergoing renovations to host MotoGP in 2027. Representatives from the country and the local promoter, Grupo OSD, met with F1 in Miami last year in hopes of hosting an F1 race as early as 2027. Having a national driver, Franco Colapinto, has likely increased interest in hosting a race. The circuit has been working with an advisory group, which includes legendary F1 circuit designer Hermann Tilke, about upgrading the circuit to suit F1. The upcoming meeting at the Miami Grand Prix next month is aimed at showcasing the progress since their last meeting, hopefully proving that the venue is committed to hosting a race.
Pierre Gasly has become an ambassador for the French fashion brand Lacoste. As part of his role, Gasly will be the face of the Lacoste polo shirt. “His determination, high standards and refined sense of style—along with his passion for disciplines like tennis and golf—naturally reflect the values that continue to shape the Maison today,” the company explained, in a social media post announcing the role.
It can be challenging for even the most avid fans to keep up with the fast-paced world of Formula One. The Weekly F1 Recap is a series published each Monday that breaks down the action, both on and off the circuit, into bit-sized pieces. It's perfect for casual and experienced fans alike.
