F2 confirms Williams F1 test for 2012 champion
GP2 tests for second and third placed drivers
The FIA Formula Two Championship has confirmed it is to continue
its long-standing partnership with the Williams F1 Team by once
again offering this year's F2 champion a full test with the squad
at the end of the season.
As with the past three seasons, the winner of the 2012 F2 series
will receive motorsport's ultimate prize of a full F1 test during
its coveted end of season rookie tests, usually held at the Yas
Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi.
In addition, for the second consecutive year, the second and third
placed drivers will enjoy a prize GP2 test to aid with their
progression through the motorsport ranks.
Last year saw 2011 F2 champion Mirko Bortolotti impress behind the
wheel of the Williams F1 car by going seventh fastest, continuing
the championship's proud record in the rookie tests beginning with
Andy Soucek who set the fastest overall time in 2009, followed by
2010 Champion Dean Stoneman who went fifth quickest - all three
against a very competitive field.
F2 Championship Coordinator James Gornall said: "We are delighted
to be able to continue offering this incredible opportunity with
Williams F1. For a driver to be able to showcase their talent in
front of the F1 team bosses is invaluable, and of course a rare
occurrence with the current testing ban.
"The test is run in such a way as to fully evaluate the potential
of the F2 champion, and they consequently receive a tremendous
amount of track time, engineering support and technical advice. The
driver is also fully prepared beforehand, working with the team and
learning on the simulator.
"It is no secret that drivers are now paying hundreds of thousands
of Euro's to drive at the young driver tests, so it gives us great
pleasure in F2 to be able to offer this opportunity with Williams
F1, who are one of best F1 teams of all time."
The opening rounds of the 2012 Formula Two season get underway on
April 13-15 with limited drives still available. Interested parties
should contact James Gornall on +44 (0)1234 332439, +44(0)7872
674012 or by email on james.gornall@formulatwo.com.