Formula 1 gossip: Pirelli, Vettel, Villeneuve, overtaking

Formula 1's Strategy Group have tasked technical chiefs with increasing opportunities for overtaking in grands prix. (Autosport) 

 

Pirelli's sporting director Paul Hembery admitted the Italian tyre manufacturer has been too conservative this season after producing heavily-degrading tyres which led to extreme strategies in recent years. (F1 Technical) 
 
Former world champion Jacques Villeneuve says he has joined the FIA Formula E ranks because "I'm a racer", adding that he wants to be involved in a series where the cars are developed to get faster. (Motorsport.com) 
 
Sebastian Vettel says Ferrari should consider the "morale and atmosphere" in the team when considering who should partner him in 2016. (Crash.net) 
 
Britain's Will Stevens has enjoyed his summer break from life with the the Manor F1 team, taking in a baseball game and many tourist sights. "See you later New York! It's been a fun time! Until next time," he tweeted. 

New York from the air, as captured by Will

Stevens

Williams technical director Pat Symonds is unhappy with Ferrari's attempts to sign Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas, accusing the Italians of "destabilising" his team. (F1 Technical) 
 
The new chairman of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, John Harnden, says taxpayers should view the £24m cost of staging the race as an investment. (Fox Sports Australia) 
 
Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel sees similarities between his career path and that of legend Michael Schumacher. (F1 Technical) 

Williams driver Felipe Massa posted a picture of him relaxing with his father and his son to mark Father's Day in Brazil