Indian driver Jehan Daruvala has taken an important step towards realizing his Formula 1 dream by securing a two-day test against eight-time champion McLaren builder.
The 23-year-old, who is currently in his third season in Formula 2, will hit valuable kilometers for the first time in a Formula 1 car. He will drive the McLaren MCL35, which has competed in the Championships. F1 2021 championship, on June 21 and 22 at Silverstone in the UK.
The test, part of McLaren’s previous Test Vehicle (TPC) program, will give Daruvala much of the experience needed in a highly complex Formula 1 car.
The track time will also help him earn enough points to apply for a Super License, needed to compete in Formula 1.
Although Daruvala is part of the Red Bull Junior Program, he has qualified to go ahead from the Milton Keynes outfit to testing against a rival F1 team.
He has said that the current Formula 2 season is a new one for him as far as his Formula 1 dreams are concerned. He is currently in the midst of his best season with five podiums in six rounds, pushing him down to third place in the standings.
As part of our Past Vehicle Test (TPC) program,@DaruvalaJehan will test the MCL35M at Silverstone on June 21 and June 22.
Enjoy your first drive in an F1 car, Jehan! 👊🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/rimIYCtE7q
– McLaren (@ McLarenF1) June 20, 2022
Speaking to the media, the driver from Mumbai seemed delighted at the opportunity but said it does not guarantee anything for 2023.
“This has nothing to do with the fact that I will be driving next year in Formula 1. There are not many seats in F1 but I have had this opportunity to sit in an F1 car and compete well and if there is a chance. Assembly, I want to be ready,” he said.
“I have never driven a Formula 1 car before. This test is for me to learn about the car and its characteristics and find its limits. My goal is to win the F2 championship. and hopefully I’ve done enough and my name is noticed).” He will do laps on the Silverstone track at speeds in excess of 300 km/h, pushing his body to the limit, especially the neck with G-forces involved.
Fresh from the F2 round in Baku, Daruvala said he is ready to take the big step.
“Aside from my neck, I don’t do too much. I’m busy with my (F2) race. I’m generally very healthy and don’t struggle much. I’ll know at the weekend but I’ve been there. prepare the body as much as possible for the test.”
Daruvala is aiming to become the third Indian to participate in Formula 1 racing after Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandhok.
