Jazeman gets a feel of F1 car in Algavre

Petronas Talent Development Programme driver Jazeman Jaafar was given a go on Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 car at Algavre International Circuit near here, Wednesday.

Describing his first proper running on F1 car as an 'incredible experience', he has expressed his satisfaction over the 335km trial, which involved few challenges such as adjusting to the machine's technicality and weather.

"It was an incredible experience doing a lot of laps on an F1 car. This track is very, very challenging, it's my first time here. The team was very helpful, I learned a lot...this is the first proper running, with a lot of tyres, a bit of wet running, engine modes and all other stuffs, it is a good learning day," Jazeman told Bernama.

"It is not just (about) driving a quicker car, it’s about driving for Mercedes AMG Petronas, a top team, the team that is leading the championship now, (in both) drivers and constructors (category).

"You work with engineers that run Lewis (Hamilton) and Nico (Rosberg). As a top team they go in detail and they try to test you on what you know as well, it's a good practice," he added.

The testing session was a part of the Mercedes’ Young Driver Development Programme initiative.

Commenting on his future plan, Jazeman said his main focus would be to perform well on the World Series Formula Renault 3.5 with his team, ISR Racing, where he has managed to secure two podium finish this year.

His next race will be at Hungaroring Circuit in Hungary on Sept 13-14.

"He (Jazeman) is a very solid young man who has very good success in some of the junior categories and is now slowly opening the door toward Formula One with the first step today to get to know a F1 car, knowing the team and so far he is doing very well," said Mercedes Motorsport Executive Director (Business), Toto Wolff, who was present at the session.

Wolff praised Petronas for its effort in developing local Malaysian talent in motorsport as it was the right move for a company that has gained a lot of insight in the industry and believe other companies will follow suit.

"Without Petronas, I doubt Jazeman would be at where he is today. Having a great company in your own country that helps and promote young drivers is what’s needed to develop somebody in the Formula One," said Wolff.