McNish stops racing to take Renault test role
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Allan McNish has been given a test role with Renault. The 33-year-old Briton, dropped by Toyota at the end of his maiden season last year, has spurned the chance of a drive in the United States and will test at every grand prix next season after Renault took up the option of the extra two-hour test on Fridays.
"Obviously I would prefer to be racing but this is the best situation I could have apart from a race seat," McNish said. "I had been speaking to teams but it became quickly apparent that they only seats available would be paying ones. We just did not have the funds and I prefer to be paid for my services.
Jos Verstappen has paid to fill the second driver's seat at Minardi. The 30-year-old Dutchman has driven for several teams, most recently with the defunct Arrows in the 2001 season.
Verstappen and Britain's Justin Wilson are both reported to have paid about £2m in cash and sponsorship guarantees for the right to drive with the tail-end team.
Formula Women, the first modern-day championship for female drivers, was launched in Birmingham yesterday.
The series is open to any woman who has not competed in motor sport but hopefuls will have to pass tests of their driving skills, fitness levels and personality to take part. The 16 qualifiers from the initial 2,400 successful applicants will then undergo an intensive driver training course later this year before racing Mazda RX-8 cars at various circuits in 2004.
The CART championship will have a European round with a race at Brands Hatch scheduled to replace the cancelled Rockingham 500. The race at the historic circuit, a former Formula One venue, will take place from 3 to 5 May.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments