F1: Palmer, Goddard to test for Force India at Abu Dhabi

Force India has confirmed that Jolyon Palmer and Richard ‘Spike’ Goddard will test for the team in Abu Dhabi next week.

GP2 champion Palmer, who will be having his first ever run in an F1 car, must presumably now be considered as a candidate for a third driver role in 2015.

As for Goddard, the Aussie gets his chance after three low-key years in F3.

“I’m pleased that we can conclude our season by giving two promising youngsters their first taste of Formula One,” said team pricipal Vijay Mallya. “As a team we have a strong track record of identifying up-and-coming prospects and giving them valuable mileage and experience in our cars. I have been following Jolyon’s progress this season in GP2 and he is clearly a big talent that deserves a chance in Formula One. Spike has also worked hard to get this chance and it’s the perfect opportunity to showcase his skills.”

“Sahara Force India has shown their faith in me by offering this opportunity and I am looking forward to repaying their trust in Abu Dhabi,” said Palmer. “I have worked very hard for a chance like this and I want to help the team get the most from this test session. This is a team that has always promoted talent and I hope this opportunity can lead to bigger things in the future.”

Goddard said: “Every young racing driver dreams to be at the wheel of a Formula One car and I am very excited to be one of the very few who gets to fulfil this dream. The test is an important stage in the preparations for 2015 and I hope my contribution will be useful for the team to get a head start for next season.”