Wickens enjoys Virgin debut

Rob Wickens debuts in an F1 machine during Virgin test

16 Sep 2011

Renault World Series leader Robert Wickens has enjoyed his first run as a Virgin Racing F1 driver after conducting a aerodynamic test with the team at Vairano.

Wickens completed 210km at the wheel of the MVR-02 as the team took the chance to test following the Italian Grand Prix.

Having signed a deal to act as the team's reserve driver earlier in the year, the test marked Wicken's first chance to sample F1 machinery.

"It was great to work with the team in this way," he 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.

"It was a good day and I was happy to sample the car for myself, albeit in a straight line, having watched Timo and J?r?me behind the wheel for the past couple of months!"

Team principal John Booth was pleased with the day's running, despite an engine issue early on which led to a short delay.

"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," he said. "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.

"Robert also did a great job in his F1 testing debut. It was his first time in the MVR-02 car and he adapted very quickly to the controls and steering wheel. It has been a very positive experience for him which he has handled very well."