Zoom No shortage of fresh talent on the Red Bull ladder

Mirko Bortolotti is “very happy and very proud” to be joining Daniel Ricciardo and Brendon Hartley in testing for Toro Rosso next month.

"My target is to get to Formula One in the next few years so to be selected for this test is very important for my career," said Bortolotti. "Of course, if I can get to F1 even sooner, then that will be great, but first I must focus on Jerez."

Bortolotti made headlines last winter when he broke the Fiorano lap record while testing with Ferrari as a reward for winning the Italian F3 series. He finished this year's F2 championship in fourth place, and earlier in 2009 was linked with injured Felipe Massa's Ferrari race seat, having already been put under contract by the energy drink Red Bull.

"There are not many chances for young drivers to test an F1 car due to the regulations so I'm very excited," Bortolotti continued. "I understand that it is an important test for all of the Formula One teams also.

"Every mile counts particularly with the current testing situation so I will prepare myself well over the next few weeks and be ready to help the team carry out their programme. I will try to learn as much as possible - I want to work closely with the team and see how all of the guys operate. My dream is to reach F1 and I hope this is the beginning of a good relationship with the team."

E.A. © CAPSIS International
Source: GMM