F1 returns to Nürburgring for Pirelli tyre test with Mercedes and McLaren

Formula 1 is set for a quiet but significant return to the Nürburgring next week, as Mercedes and McLaren take part in a two-day Pirelli tyre test.

Pirelli’s controlled test programme

In these tests, the tyre manufacturer effectively "rents" a team. The participating outfits operate without knowledge of which compounds are being evaluated, following run plans dictated entirely by Pirelli. The process ensures objective data collection, with teams running blind to the specifications under assessment.

According to rumors, Mercedes will field its regular race drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, while McLaren will run Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri across the two days.

A historic venue revisited

The Nürburgring has a long association with Formula 1. Between 2009 and 2013, it hosted the German Grand Prix in alternating years with Hockenheim, staging the race in odd-numbered seasons. From 2014 onward, Hockenheim became the sole host, retaining the event in even-numbered years through 2018.

A final German Grand Prix followed in 2019, organised at the behest of Mercedes as part of its 125th anniversary celebrations.

The upcoming tyre test does not signal a competitive return, but it does bring contemporary F1 cars back to a circuit that has played a notable role in the sport’s modern history.

Ferrari’s separate programme

Elsewhere, Ferrari is also scheduled to assist Pirelli during the April break, conducting a two-day wet tyre test at Fiorano.

That session replaces previously planned running in Bahrain, which was cancelled due to the outbreak of the Iran War.

Together, the programmes form part of Pirelli’s broader development schedule as it continues refining its products with direct input from current teams and drivers.