Andretti to Test with Honda

Marco Andretti is set to test with Honda at Jerez next week for the forthcoming Formula One season.

The Andretti name has an F1 history, with his grandfather Mario being 1978 World Champion, and his father, Michael, being a driver for McLaren.

Honda hope to add the 19 year old to their testing scheme, with the view to making him a permanent test driver, and possibly stepping into Rubens Barrichello's shoes in a few seasons time, by which time it is likely that he will have retired.

Andretti said, "I am thrilled with this opportunity that Honda have given me."

The IRL runner up, and runner up in the showpiece Indianapolis 500 in 2006, would be a welcome addition to Formula One, especially as it looks to increase its American audience.

In the 60s and 70s, there were many United States drivers, Richie Ginther, Peter Revson, Phil Hill and Mario Andretti being the most successful.

Source

ThecrookedcapAll-Star

1117 days ago

Score 1

Interesting...The hunt for an American in F1 continues... I think Marco's a talented kid. Whether he's F1 material, I'm not sure. He did get his win last season at a road event though, so he's not just an oval wonder. This would be a decent time to try, since he has a guaranteed escape route if it doesn't work out (since his dad does own the racing team).

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Alex HolowczakHall of Famer

1116 days ago

Score 0

Well, there is an American in F1 - Scott Speed. But he's not libel to win the World Championship, or even win a race come to think of it. Agree that it's a good time for him to try F1.

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