Marco Andretti will apparently scratch his F1 itch earlier than anyone expected. (LAT photo) » More Photos
IndyCar Series "Rookie of the Year" Marco Andretti will get his first experience of a Formula 1 car courtesy of Honda Racing when he joins the team's test at the Spanish circuit of Jerez next week.
The team has invited Marco to drive its 2006-spec RA106 on Friday, December 15, the final day of its scheduled test, in recognition of the 19-year-old's achievements in the Honda-powered IndyCar Series this year. Andretti scored a win on the Infineon Raceway road course, and finished second in the Indianapolis 500 at his first attempt.
The son of two-time IndyCar Series championship-winning team owner and former CART champion Michael Andretti, and the grandson of racing legend Mario Andretti is also teammates at Andretti Green Racing with Brazilian Tony Kanaan, who was awarded with a similar "experience" of a Honda F1 car last December, for winning the IndyCar Series crown in 2004.
/>
"I am thrilled that Honda has offered me this incredible opportunity," Andretti said. "2006 was a fantastic inaugural year for me in the IRL and I look forward to fighting for the championship next season. However, as you would expect of any racing driver, when Honda offered me the chance to drive, I grabbed it with both hands – no hesitation! I can only imagine what an awesome experience this is going to be and I'm just going to take my time and enjoy every moment."
Former Champ Car and IndyCar driver Gil de Ferran, now Sporting Director for Honda Racing, said, "We are delighted to have Marco join us in Jerez next week for his first run in a Formula 1 car. Marco has had an outstanding first season in the IndyCar Series, making a big impact at such a young age. As part of the extended Honda Racing family, it will be a great pleasure for us to give him the chance of his first experience of Formula 1."
