Virgin Racing Team reserve driver Robert Wickens in action at Vairano circuit – Formula 1 news
Virgin Racing Team reserve driver Roberts Wickens took his first straight-line aero test for VRT this Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at the Vairano circuit, Italy.
The 22-year-old driver completed over 200 kilometres in the MV-02 which he was driving for the very first time.
This test was of great importance to the VRT as it was conducted with the idea to further test the team’s aerodynamic upgrades after the Monza race. However, Wickens was looking at the test from a different perspective. He was viewing at it as more of an
opportunity to enhance his abilities as a driver and to develop his knowledge of the F1 machinery.
Wickens, who is also the Formula Renault 3.5 Championship leader said, “Driving the car is obviously a natural step in my progression and education as a Reserve Driver with Marussia Virgin Racing. Like all drivers I'm eager for seat time and the work we
did today undoubtedly plays an important role for the team in its aerodynamic development program.”
During the test, Wickens drove the car with great skill even though he was not so familiar with the machinery. In addition, there were some technical issues faced that the beginning of the test but despite them, Wickens’ performance during the test was quite
commendable.
Commenting on Wicken’s performance, the team’s principal engineer John Booth said, “It was a slow start to the day due to an issue with the engine; however the Cosworth technicians working with the team did a good job to solve the problem as quickly as possible.
From that point on, the day ran pretty much to plan and we have been able to collect a huge amount of data to analyse.”
The Toronto-born driver joined Virgin Racing Team as a reserve driver in June 2011 after the Canadian Grand Prix. Prior to this, he had been a driver with the Renault team. Ever since his association with Marussia Virgin Racing, he has been regularly taking
part in every grand prix along with his fellow teammates, Timo Glock and Jerome d’ Ambrosio.
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