(Eric Vargiolu DPPI for Renault Sport F1)
Max Verstappen is set to be granted the mandatory FIA Super Licence after completing the necessary mileage that will enable the Dutch teenager to take part in Free Practice session's later this season as he prepares to make his Formula One debut with the Toro Rosso team next season after it was confirmed that he would replace Jean Eric Vergne as Daniil Kvyat's team mate at the Italian outfit.
Verstappen was taking part in a private test session at the Adria International Raceway in Italy today where he completed 365KPH surpassing the 300KM required to be eligible for the Super Licence. This means that the team can run the Dutch driver at Grand Prix events later in the season just like they did with Daniil Kvyat at the end of last season.
Speaking about the test, Verstappen commented:
'I was looking forward to my first drive in a Formula 1 car on a proper track and I really enjoyed it, It was a good opportunity to work with Xevi as well as having a chance to get used to all the buttons on the steering wheel. I think it went well and I can't wait to get back into a Formula 1 car as soon as possible.'
The test also gave Verstappen the opportunity to work alongside Xevi Pujolar who will be his race engineer next season. Pujolar commented on the test by saying:
'He was very focused and precise and learned quickly, without having to ask many questions. Once we were able to fit slicks, he got used to the car and built up his speed, while we tried various fuel levels, replicating qualifying and race trim, doing a mix of short and long runs. For a first day, it was very impressive.'
Toro Rosso plan to run Verstappen in practice during the final three race weekend's of the 2014 season starting in Austin, Texas ahead of the US Grand Prix before heading to the Interlagos circuit in Brazil and then the final round of the season in Abu Dhabi in November.
Toro Rosso are currently in 7th place in the Constructors championship, eleven points ahead of the Lotus F1 Team with six race's left this season.
© Ben Johnston 2014
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