From Lotus Renault
The news we posted yesterday was confirmed Thursday by the Lotus Renault Formula 1 team. Spanish driver Maria De Villota indeed tested a Renault in France.
De Villota took to the wheel of Lotus Renault GP’s R29 at the Paul Ricard Circuit in Southern France earlier this month, and clocked up 300 kilometres during her time on the track.
The aim of the test was to provide María with her first taste of F1, and allow her to become familiar with the onboard systems and car balance.
María was able to steadily increase her rythm, and reached a very reasonable pace in a short period of time.
“As a female driver, I was very happy to get the opportunity to drive in a Formula 1 car”, said María de Villota.
“Formula 1 is the pinnacle of motor racing and has always been a dream for me. The running went very well, conditions were ideal, and the team made me feel at ease straight away. It did not take too long to get used to the car and, after I felt comfortable with it, I was able to start pushing and, as a result, really enjoyed the experience. I have been impressed by Lotus Renault GP’s professionalism. I want to thank the team a lot for this opportunity”, she added.
“We were delighted to offer María the chance to drive in the R29. As a team, we pride ourselves on our ability to assess new talents and offer different drivers opportunities with us.
"María did exactly what was expected of her; she took things one step at a time, and achieved some very reasonable laptimes, not putting a foot wrong all day.”, said Lotus Renault GP Team Principal & Managing Director Eric Boullier.
The news we posted yesterday was confirmed Thursday by the Lotus Renault Formula 1 team. Spanish driver Maria De Villota indeed tested a Renault in France.
De Villota took to the wheel of Lotus Renault GP’s R29 at the Paul Ricard Circuit in Southern France earlier this month, and clocked up 300 kilometres during her time on the track.
The aim of the test was to provide María with her first taste of F1, and allow her to become familiar with the onboard systems and car balance.
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| Maria de Villota and the Renault R29. (Photo: Lotus Renault GP) |
María was able to steadily increase her rythm, and reached a very reasonable pace in a short period of time.
“As a female driver, I was very happy to get the opportunity to drive in a Formula 1 car”, said María de Villota.
“Formula 1 is the pinnacle of motor racing and has always been a dream for me. The running went very well, conditions were ideal, and the team made me feel at ease straight away. It did not take too long to get used to the car and, after I felt comfortable with it, I was able to start pushing and, as a result, really enjoyed the experience. I have been impressed by Lotus Renault GP’s professionalism. I want to thank the team a lot for this opportunity”, she added.
“We were delighted to offer María the chance to drive in the R29. As a team, we pride ourselves on our ability to assess new talents and offer different drivers opportunities with us.
"María did exactly what was expected of her; she took things one step at a time, and achieved some very reasonable laptimes, not putting a foot wrong all day.”, said Lotus Renault GP Team Principal & Managing Director Eric Boullier.