Stoffel Vandoorne, Aston Martin’s reserve driver, is eagerly anticipating a significant milestone in his racing career – his first opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car in the Pirelli test following the Belgian Grand Prix.
The anticipation is even more special as the test will take place at his home track, the renowned Spa circuit
“Can’t wait to drive an F1 car again! It’s been a while,” Vandoorne wrote on social media.
His second post highlighted the significance of testing on his home circuit, as he added, “AND I’M DRIVING IT ON MY HOME TRACK!!!!”
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During the Pirelli test, Felipe Drugovich, another test driver for Aston Martin, will graciously step aside, giving way for Vandoorne to shine.
Drugovich has already driven for Aston Martin during the official pre-season tests but has gracefully offered the opportunity to his teammate.
In addition to Aston Martin, McLaren will also take part in the Pirelli test.
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Although, with reserve driver Alex Palou fully focused on the remainder of the IndyCar season, Lando Norris and/or Oscar Piastri are expected to represent the English team in the test after the Belgian Grand Prix.
The test is likely to prove less dramatic for the Formula 1 landscape than the previous event, which saw Red Bull management make the decision to axe Nyck de Vries from AlphaTauri in favour of Daniel Ricciardo.
Returning for his first race in Hungary, Ricciardo delivered AlphaTauri’s first Q2 performance in four races and a P13 finish, outperforming his teammate.