Michael Schumacher testing for three days on a GP2 car

Michael Schumacher, who will participate in his 17th Formula 1 season in 2010 after a three-year break, took part in a first day of testing in the GP2 Series. The German will have to develop the new 2010 single-seater over three days and will thus accumulate experience.

This is the first time the German has tested a single-seater since his end-of-season tests in 2009 to replace the injured Felipe Massa at Ferrari. The new Mercedes GP driver will have two more days tomorrow and the day after tomorrow in Jerez to regain his sensations.

Schumacher is thus contributing to the development of the new GP2 single-seater. He will focus on improving the suspension and evaluating the new aerodynamics. Only the Super Nova Team is present to assist in the development of the GP2-2010.

The test was approved by the FIA – Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile – earlier in the week. The test is also aimed at checking the physical capabilities of the seven-time F1 world champion. Schumacher could not race last September due to neck issues linked to a motorcycle fall.

Bruno Michel, the director of the GP2 series, was pleased with this test: « It’s an honor to be able to develop our new car with Michael Schumacher – seven-time F1 champion. That’s why the series exists. We develop new talents like him, and he is well positioned to train new talents… »

Photos of the test will be available in the evening.