Hamilton to launch his F1 testing academy

Anthony Hamilton plans to launch a fleet of 2009 Formula 1 cars with the aim of helping young drivers gain mileage in current Grand Prix cars without being hindered by testing restrictions.

The father of the 2008 champion, Lewis Hamilton, intends to use old cars, as well as equipment and personnel from teams for a year to operate independently in a program called ‘GP Prep Drivers Academy’, meaning ‘Grand Prix Preparation Drivers Academy’.

He has already reached an agreement with McLaren for the supply of two cars and is in advanced negotiations with other teams. Hamilton stated that the idea was to give young drivers the chance to test an F1 car and prove their potential.

« If you look at our sport, the drivers are very lucky to be in F1 because they didn’t have a career structure. There are guys who receive no Grand Prix preparation. The goal is to provide more opportunities for young drivers to be noticed, » explained the Briton.

The costs still need to be specified, but for one-day tests, a budget similar to a race weekend would be needed. Agreements are also being finalized with circuits, but most are expected to be in the United Kingdom. The program is set to launch in March.