HRT have announced that Chinese driver Ma Qing Hua will participate in the young driver test at Silverstone later in the season.
The 24-year-old is currently the Spanish outfit’s test driver having joined their driver development programme in April.
The Silverstone test will mark his Formula 1 debut – with exact days yet to be confirmed.
“I’m very happy and fortunate to have the opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car at the young driver test and do it with HRT,” Qing Hua said.
“I’ve dreamed of this all my life and am aware of the great responsibility that comes with it as I’ll be the first Chinese driver ever to take part in the young driver test.
“I’m very grateful towards HRT for this opportunity and the faith they have shown in me and I won’t let them down.”
Team boss Luiz Perez-Sala added: “Over the last few weeks we’ve been working with Ma, as a part of our scheduled development programme, at the Valencia and Jerez circuits with different cars and we consider that he is ready to take part in the young driver test that will take place in Silverstone.
“We’re pleased to be giving him this opportunity in Formula 1 and for the first member of our driver development programme to start accomplishing his targets.”
