For the third year running Vodafone McLaren Mercedes entrusted Oliver Turvey to support with testing and development in the F1 Young Driver Test. The annual test, which allows teams to trial the next generation of F1 stars, took place at the Yas Marina Race Circuit, in the week following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
As one of the team’s official Test Drivers, Turvey has spent much of 2011 working for McLaren in the F1 simulator at the team’s headquarters in Woking. Turvey has not only been helping to develop the car but has also provided support to the race team on Fridays of Grand Prix weekends.
The main focus of the test in Abu Dhabi was on aerodynamic development and working with F1 tyre suppliers Pirelli, in order to help the front running F1 team prepare for a title assault in 2012. In addition Turvey was able to conduct some simulator tests to help the team refine its technology in Woking.
“It was an honour to be selected again to drive for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes in the Abu Dhabi test. We had a very successful and productive test, getting through the whole program and gathering plenty of interesting information on the aerodynamics and tyres for next year,” commented Turvey.
“I had a fantastic few days and thoroughly enjoyed every moment in the car. A big thanks to the team for the opportunity and all of the hard work.”
Oliver will continue to work with the team on two fronts through the winter break, supporting the F1 and GT3 programmes in preparation for the 2012 season.