Force India still have not confirmed reports that Lucas Auer is set to test the VJM10 in Hungary next month. Following the Hungarian Grand Prix, Formula 1 will host the second in-season test of the year, with many teams giving opportunities to young drivers.
The 22-year-old is also partly supported by Force India's engine supplier Mercedes, whose boss Toto Wolff said: "If he's in a car in Hungary, or a Force India, it's not up to us to communicate that."
Force India is still not confirming the news about Auer, however: "When we are ready to announce something, I am sure you will be happy," said Force India sporting boss Otmar Szafnauer. "We are impressed with Lucas -- he is doing a great job in DTM."
Auer is currently second in the DTM standings, two points behind leader Mattias Ekstrom. Szafnauer says that Auer would not get a test seat just because of his BWT links: "It must be a combination," he said. "If he is a good driver, and it is someone who we want to see how he goes in aFformula 1 car, we give them the opportunity. If it is Lucas, you can be sure that it is not just a commercial deal."
Fergal Walsh
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Bahrain International Circuit - Winter testing
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Posts: 1,804
I would like to see Auer in the car to see what he can do, always interesting when a touring car competitor gets into an F1 car