Ralph Firman, the principal driver for Ireland, will begin proceedings at this week's Paul Ricard test before handing over to current German F3 runner-up Michael Devaney.

Devaney is one of a number of drivers being considered for the role of reserve driver for A1 Team Ireland.

"This is an excellent opportunity for me as a young Irish driver and I am thankful to A1 Team Ireland for allowing me to test their car and to prove my driving ability and hopefully be in with a chance to be the reserve driver for the team," says Michael.

"The A1 Grand Prix series is very exciting and the cars are clearly among the quickest single seaters in the world"

Up and coming drivers can be evaluated by A1 teams at any stage during the season using the practice sessions scheduled on the Friday of each event. CEO of Team Ireland Mark Kershaw commented: "We stated last week that A1 Team Ireland would provide opportunities for young Irish drivers to progress their careers and this test for Michael Devaney is the first step in that process."

Firman will continue testing Thursday and Friday as Michael Devaney heads to Germany to prepare for the next round of the German F3 Championship.

At the first A1 GP test in Silverstone in early August the top 14 drivers recorded fastest lap times separated by less than two seconds, demonstrating the competitiveness of the series. With ten more teams participating in the Paul Ricard test, competition will be fierce. Team Principal Mark Gallagher believes: "It will be great to see A1 Team Ireland compete on the track for the first time. After the initial excitement of the test we have a mountain to climb in terms of making the team fully competitive. We have already assembled a strong technical team and are focused on completing this test and being as well prepared as anyone for Brand's Hatch."