Lotus gives aero test to 16-year old driver
In an announcement on Friday Lotus Racing revealed that they will be carrying out an aerodynamic test in early September with 16-year-old Malaysian driver Nabil Jeffri. The test is part of the racing outfit’s commitment to inspiring young drivers throughout South East Asia. The location of the aero test has not been disclosed, but it will take place somewhere in the U.K.
Jeffri is a member of the AirAsia ASEAN Driver Development Program and received the aero test as part of his sponsorship. Jeffri is currently in fifth place in the Formula BMW Pacific and drives with Eurasia Motorsport.
“I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to drive for Lotus Racing in the aero test. It's a big privilege to gain driving experience with the most promising new F1 team," Jeffri told reporters at the press conference. "Driving the Lotus Racing car will definitely be a priceless exposure to the F1 driving experience, and I'm looking forward to many more similar opportunities to arise as a result of being part of the AirAsia Driver Development program."
Lotus Racing, which also goes by its company name 1Malaysia F1 Team, debuted in 2010 and developed the program to expose young drivers to the world of Formula One away from the hustle and bustle of Grand Prix weekends.
“The program was created to accelerate the growth of motorsports in South East Asia by providing an avenue for youths in the region to pursue their dream of becoming professional drivers," said Lotus team principal Tony Fernandes.
Lotus’ program is open to any youth in the South East Asian region.
Jeffri is a karting prodigy and will receive mentorship from Alex Yoong as well as publicity and support from Air Asia. Fernandes takes pride in the company’s outreach program, “being able to give bright young talent like Nabil the chance to play an integral role in the development of our team is a recognition of his burgeoning talent, and shows that there is a clear route to the top rung of the motor sport ladder, no matter how old you are or where you are racing.”
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