TOP NEWS STORIES

Dean Stoneman to help develop Williams simulator in Qatar

2010 F2 champion to assist at Williams Technology Centre

2010 Formula Two champion Dean Stoneman has signed an agreement with the Williams F1 Team to help develop its simulator at its Technology Centre in Qatar.

Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE) uses the technology from its Formula One experience and adapts it for commercial applications - with the development of the Middle East's most advanced driving simulator forming part of the programme.

British racer Stoneman is helping to perfect the simulator at the Williams Technology Centre in Qatar, in time for the launch of the WAE High Performance Driver Training Programme at the end of the year. This comprehensive five day winter training programme is open to a wide range of racing drivers and gives participants the unique opportunity to experience the training methods and technologies developed in F1.

21-year-old Stoneman secured six wins and 13 podiums on his way to winning the F2 series and was rewarded with a full test with the Williams F1 Team, where he finished an impressive fifth overall against a very strong field. The following year he was due to compete in the Formula Renault 3.5 series but was forced to sit on the sidelines after being diagnosed with testicular cancer.

"I'm really excited about this new project and working with the team from Williams Advanced Engineering in Qatar," said Stoneman. "As a Formula 2 Champion I can provide good insight into what drivers expect from a simulator, whilst at the same time getting some valuable simulator time myself to get ready for the next stage of my career.''

Damien Scott, General Manager of Williams Technology Centre in Qatar, added: "We're delighted that Dean has agreed to come on board and share his knowledge with us. The simulator we're developing is designed for open wheel racing series including Formula 2 so to have a past champion helping to develop it will be invaluable."