Pirelli wants 2014 Formula 1 deal by April

Pirelli wants a new F1 deal to be signed and sealed within three months. That is the claim of Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, referring to the Italian marque's expiring three-year contract as the sport's official supplier.

When launching the new F1 tyre range for 2013 this week, Pirelli chief Marco Tronchetti Provera confirmed that the marque wants to continue the "adventure" beyond this year. Auto Motor und Sport said he wants the answer by April. "We need to know what's going to happen," motor sport director Paul Hembery confirmed. "It's also important for the teams because so much is changing in 2014," he added.

Indeed, with the switch to turbo V6 engines, the downforce and weight of the cars is changing significantly, as is the torque that will be put through the rear tyres. (GMM)