Alpine hands F1 test at Monza to Academy hopeful Martins

Alpine Academy protégé Victor Martins will enjoy his first outing onboard an F1 car next week at Monza.

Martins, who stepped up to the FIA Formula 2 Championship this season with ART Grand Prix after securing the title in F3 last year, will test Alpine's 2021 race winning A521 alongside the Enstone squad's reserve driver Jack Doohan.

The 21-year-old French-Portuguese driver will be out on the track at Monza on Monday while Doohan will test on Tuesday.

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"I am super excited to get my first taste in a Formula 1 car in Monza on Monday," said the young gun.

"I will be the first time I will work closely with the Alpine team at a track and to be able to have my first opportunity in an F1 car with them is pretty special.

"I aim to get a lot of track time and enjoy it all. I am really grateful to get this first chance thanks to Alpine and all the team.

"I have had my seat fit and we have completed some simulator work for it, which is all very exciting.

"Now I am just looking forward to getting out on track and maximise the opportunity to learn as much as possible," concluded Martins.

©Alpine

"We are looking forward to having Victor test in the A521 in Monza and giving him his first run in a Formula 1 car," commented Alpine Academy director Julian Rouse.

"He has spent time in Enstone preparing for his test, running in the simulator, and having his seat fit.

"During his time in the Alpine Academy he has had some fantastic achievements, one of which being the current FIA Formula 3 Champion.

"Now he has progressed to Formula 2 and showing huge potential there it is definitely the right moment to see him test in an F1 car.

"We are pleased as an Academy to continue to support Victor in his development and extend opportunities when they arise."

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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.