Nyck de Vries may test with a Formula 1 car for the first time in his career next week. Just like Formula E stable mate Stoffel Vandoorne, the Dutchman can take action for Mercedes during the post season test in Abu Dhabi.
After the last Grand Prix weekend of the F1 season, a so-called Young Drivers Test is scheduled in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Initially, this test was only intended for young, inexperienced drivers. The FIA has now informed the teams that drivers who have already driven more than two Formula 1 races can also take part, which, for example, enables the Renault team to get Fernando Alonso some meters in preparation for his return. in the premier class next year.
Formula E drivers in action during F1 test
Mercedes will let Stoffel Vandoorne and Nyck de Vries come into action at the Yas Marina Circuit next week. Both drivers, who usually compete for Mercedes in Formula E, will each be allowed to participate in this year’s championship car for a half day.
For Vandoorne – who was passed by Mercedes last week as a potential replacement for Lewis Hamilton despite his role as a reserve driver – it will be his return behind the wheel of an F1 car. Apart from a few demonstrations, De Vries never drove a Formula 1 car.
“Dreams come true”
“I have been jumping since the day I was informed”, the 2019 Formula 2 champion responds to the news. “This will be my Formula 1 debut. I cannot thank Mercedes enough for their trust and this opportunity. Dreams come true.”