I'm glad to see the inclusion of more winter testing. Now in '07 with only one tire supplier it should give us a better idea of who's good and who's not - be it driver, team, car, strategy... The whole who has the best tire issue all year was to me a distraction to the important things, drivers, cars and teams.

[QUOTE]Bridgestone agree to increase testing
By Jonathan Noble Monday, October 23rd 2006, 16:26 GMT

Formula One teams have reached agreement with Bridgestone for a third test to take place this winter, autosport.com has learned. A number of teams were concerned that they would not have enough preparation time for 2007 when only two three-day tests in December were originally pencilled in. However, after a series of discussions between team bosses and the Japanese tyre manufacturer, agreement has now been reached for an extra session to start in Barcelona on November 28. The two original tests will then go ahead at Jerez in Spain over the following weeks.

Although Williams had been one of the key pushers for the extra test, because of their change of engine for 2007, their efforts were supported by a number of other outfits who want to get as much mileage

 

I agree, but what stinks is Bridgestone has said that the tires will br 1-2 sec slower next year. We also know with Homo engines for the next 4 years, cars wont be able to make up the loss due to the rubber. Lets just hope the aero departments can find 3-4 seconds a lap.... They have to do something to finally give MM a heart attack and kill him!!!

 

didnt they mention why the tires will be slower? and arent they shifting to slicks later on?

 

Slower tires could be a variety of things, a desired reduction in pace by the FIA as well as cheaper manufacturing for Bridgestone. Afterall, now Bridgestone is not in a battle to have the very best so they can get by with a less advanced tire as they are no longer really competing...

 

that really sucks, compitition is nice, even if between tire manufacturers, its sad to see michlen leave F1