F2 title contender Ilott to drive for Alfa Romeo in Abu Dhabi test

Ferrari junior driver Callum Ilott will get his hands on 2020 Formula 1 machinery in Abu Dhabi this year, when he drives for Alfa Romeo in the end-of-season young driver test.

The 22-year-old was supposed to drive for Haas in FP1 at the Eifel Grand Prix at the Nurburgring, however, the session was cancelled because of foggy conditions.

READ MORE: ‘It hasn’t been a wasted opportunity’ says Ilott after missing out on FP1 debut

But having driven for Alfa Romeo in 2019, at the in-season Barcelona test, Ilott – who has taken three wins in F2 to sit second in the championship - will get more experience with the Hinwil team in 2020.

“I am really looking forward to being in the car again in Abu Dhabi and I am grateful to Alfa Romeo Racing and the Ferrari Driver Academy for this opportunity,” said Ilott.

“Any chance to drive a Formula 1 car is important: it’s a way to grow my experience, not just in the cockpit, but also working with the team: the engineers and crew are among the best in the world and there is so much to learn from them, so I am going to make it count.”

Alfa Romeo Team Principal Fred Vasseur added: “Callum is one of the most promising young drivers coming through the ranks, as his performance in F2 has shown this year.

“He was unlucky to miss out on a chance to show his ability last month, when FP1 was called off at the Nurburgring, so he thoroughly deserves his outing with the team in Abu Dhabi.

“His attitude and work ethic have left a very positive impression with the team when he tested with us last year and testing with him in Abu Dhabi is something we are really looking forward to.”

Ilott’s initial focus will be the final two rounds of the F2 campaign, which both take place in Bahrain, with the 22-year-old 22 points behind championship leader Mick Schumacher.