Di Resta scores McLaren F1 tests
“Obviously it’s not ideal, but we can’t control the weather," Paul said on his official website. “Basically it’s been a washout, which is really frustrating, but at least the forecast is dry for Wednesday, so I should get some running tomorrow (today)."
This is his second test in a single seater in as many weeks after an impressive debut at the wheel of a GP2 car at Paul Ricard, the first time he has been in the cockpit since his title in the F3 Euroseries two years ago. However, the McLaren test does not mean that he is headed to the F1 series in 09.
“My commitment is totally focused on ensuring I win the DTM title for Mercedes-Benz this season. This test in the F1 McLaren is a merely a continuation of the excellent relationship I have with both Mercedes and McLaren and people shouldn’t read too much into it."
After today’s session, there will be another two day test later in the month.
10/07/08 (GMM) Paul di Resta, a Scottish driver who currently races in Germany's DTM series for Mercedes-Benz, is this week at the wheel of McLaren's formula one car.
It is the first installment of no fewer than four test days he will enjoy for the Woking-based squad in October, according to motorsport-magazin.com.
On Tuesday and Wednesday the 22-year-old is in action at Silverstone, and he will reprise the effort with two more days later this month.
While F1 teams' official in-season testing program has ended, di Resta's tests are possible due to the 2008 test agreement, whereby inexperienced youngsters are allowed mileage outside the restrictions of the accord.
The former F3 Euroseries champion's chances of moving into F1 recently took another step forward, when he tested at Paul Ricard for leading GP2 team ART.
"It is difficult for a driver to accept that he has no chance to get into F1 — and I hope I don’t have to," he told The Sun newspaper.
"My job is just to do the best I can. I am trying my hardest and hopefully they will come knocking on the door or give me a phone call.
"But for now it is up to me to concentrate on the DTM. The powers-that-be at Mercedes have looked after me and I am sure they will continue to look after me.
"We just have to see what the outcome of it all will be. I just need to see what the right chance is to get there and make sure it is a good opportunity," di Resta said.