Russell and Antonelli join Nurburgring F1 test lineup

Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli are set to conduct a private Pirelli tyre test at the Nurburgring's Grand Prix circuit this month, joining McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in a series of pre-Miami Grand Prix running. The tests, scheduled for the week originally meant for the canceled Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, will be held behind closed doors, offering teams valuable track time during the extended break in the racing calendar.

Why it matters:

With the early-season Middle Eastern races canceled, this private testing provides crucial, rare mileage for teams and drivers outside of official sessions. It also marks a notable return of modern F1 machinery to the iconic Nurburgring, a circuit steeped in racing history but not on the current F1 calendar, following recent high-profile visits by other drivers in different racing categories.

The details:

• Driver Lineup: The test will feature Mercedes' George Russell and junior driver Kimi Antonelli, alongside the previously announced McLaren duo of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
• Circuit Choice: Unlike Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll's recent runs on the full Nordschleife, this F1 test will be confined to the modern Grand Prix circuit layout.
• Timing: The sessions are scheduled for April, specifically during the week the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was to be held, before the season resumes in May with the Miami GP.
• Closed Doors: The test is private and not open to the public, limiting fan access but allowing teams to focus on data collection without external distractions.

What's next:

The additional track time will be a valuable asset for both Mercedes and McLaren as they prepare their 2024 packages for the start of the competitive European phase of the season in Miami. For Kimi Antonelli, the outing represents another significant step in his development within the Mercedes program, offering experience in a current-spec F1 car on a demanding track.