Max Verstappen will take part in first practice for the Japanese Grand Prix on Friday, just a few days after he turns 17 years of age.
The Dutch driver will take over Jean-Eric Vergne’s seat for the session as part of his preparations for a full-time race seat next season when he replaces Vergne.
The 16-year-old described the opportunity as “a dream come true”.
“My dad has raced at Suzuka many times and he told me it’s not an easy track to start on,” explained Verstappen.
“For me it will be a very valuable experience, spending some time in the car and also getting used to working with everyone in the team, to prepare myself for next year.
“I am not going there to break any records, I just want to gain experience,” he added. “I have spent one day driving this track on the simulator, which helps a bit, but it’s no substitute for driving it for real.
“My first impression is that it’s not an easy track and for example it looks hard to get the combination right in the first esses. I have one and a half hours to drive there and I’m looking forward to doing a good job, for myself and for the team.”
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