Sam Bird with Mercedes in Abu Dhabi

For his first year in the GP2 Series, Sam Bird placed fifth in the Championship, the first driver among the Rookies. His services did not go in vain since Mercedes GP suggested that the Briton go to Abu Dhabi to carry out the tests, which will be the second opportunity for Sam Bird to drive a F1 after his tests with Williams three years ago.

Ross Brawn was the first impressed by the pace displayed by the ART GP driver. “ Sam (Bird) did an impressive job in his first season in GP2 », commented the former owner of Brawn GP. “ He is the best-placed Rookie in the Championship after having achieved several excellent results this season. We are certain that he will provide the team with the consistency required and the feedback we need. This opportunity will be an exceptional chance for him to continue his progression in motorsport and increase his experience in F1. »

But Brawn wanted to add that the choice of the Briton was not made over a single season, but over his entire career. “ Sam was chosen for his GP2 career, in F3 Euro Series and British F3. In addition, he knows the Abu Dhabi circuit having covered it in GP2. We look forward to working with Sam in testing to see his progress over the two days. »

Sam Bird will join Pastor Maldonado, who will ride for Williams, and Serio Perez, who will be on board a Sauber. His opponents will also be formidable since they finished in the first two places in the GP2 Championship.