08/11/2005
NEWS STORY
As part of its ongoing effort to discover talented drivers, The Midland Group confirmed today that 2005 World Series Renault driver, Markus Winkelhock, will conduct a one-day test for the team on 10 December at Jerez, Spain. Winkelhock will have a seat fitting at the factory on 16 November in preparation for his first Formula One test.
In 2005, the 25-year-old German driver competed for the Draco Multiracing USA Team and finished third in the Championship, winning three races. Previously, he had raced successfully in Formula Renault, Formula 3 and DTM.
Colin Kolles, Managing Director of Jordan Grand Prix, stated: Markus Winkelhock is one of the most promising driving talents in Germany at the moment and I am delighted that we are able to offer him his first F1 test drive next month. I saw him compete in F3 a few years ago and was already impressed by his driving. His first season in the World Series in 2005 has been very successful and we are looking forward to working with him at Jerez."
Markus Winkelhock said: This is a fantastic chance for me to drive a Formula One for the first time. This opportunity does not put too much pressure on me. I finished 3rd in the World Series this year so I think I have quite a good feeling for single seaters. I hope I will be able to do a good job for the team. I should like to thank my manager, Volker Zeh, who has given me great support. When I was struggling a bit in DTM last year with an old car, he encouraged me to return to single-seaters and now, a year later, I will be testing a Midland F1 car. Twenty years ago, my father, Manfred Winkelhock, also drove in F1, so this will be a great and unforgettable experience for me."