Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsForce India

Force India opportunity a 'vote of confidence', says Celis

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Young Mexican hopeful Alfonso Celis, who joined Force India as a development driver last year, has been entrusted with putting the team's new VJM09 through its paces on Monday and Tuesday in Barcelona.

Speaking to Motorsport.com, Celis views the task as a big vote of confidence on behalf of Vijay Mallya's squad.

"I'm very excited and ready to complete the two days they have given me," Celis said.

"I was surprised by the opportunity. I was informed of it at the factory while preparing for the season ahead.

"The team has given me a vote of confidence and it is important for me to be in the car for my development. It's important to be in the car as long as possible for me to keep growing."

The 19-year-old, who got his first sample of F1 at last year's post Abu Dhabi Grand Prix test, competed in GP3 with ART Grand Prix in 2015, as well as in the 3.5litre Formula Renault series.

Nico Hulkenberg will also drive Force India's new car on Monday while Sergio Perez will take to the track on Tuesday.

"During the first day, we will need to check that the car works correctly," Celis explained.

"There is a lot of work to be done. The main thing for me is to give feedback that will serve the team well for the proper development of the car.

"We hope to get as many laps as we are looking for. It is important that no failures occur and that I am not involved in any accident.

"It's a very extensive plan - I think I've never had this kind of workload. But this is Formula 1 and I'm very focused on the job."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.