F1: Vergne drives 2014 Ferrari in 2017 tire test

Jean-Eric Vergne is driving a 2014-spec Ferrari at Fiorano on Tuesday as part of Pirelli's 2017 tire testing program.

The Ferrari test driver will complete a series of runs in the F14-T on 2016-size tires that contain a number of prototype elements for 2017. Should the program not be completed on Tuesday, there is scope to finish it on Wednesday morning.

The next test of this kind is expected to take place after the Spanish Grand Prix. A detailed schedule for the coming tests is likely to be finalised in the coming weeks.

The testing is part of the running the FIA recently agreed that will allow Pirelli to test prototype 2017 tires in 2016 sizes on 2013 or 2014 cars. There is no restriction on this testing, but it will only be permitted this year.

Further testing over 25 "car days," using current cars fitted with 2017 tire sizes, will be allowed this year and again over the following two seasons.

It is believed Pirelli considers its contract for 2017-'19 to be as good as done, though an official announcement has yet to be made.

Originally on Autosport.com