Force India`s Rossiter to make F1 weekend debut on Friday

Silverstone (England): Force India`s simulator James Rossiter is set to make his Formula one weekend debut when he hits the track during the opening free practice of the British Grand Prix here on Friday. Formerly a test driver for Super Aguri and Honda, Rossiter, will take over German Adrian Sutil`s car for the 90-minute session at his home race.

"This is an amazing opportunity and I`m really looking forward to taking part in an official practice session during a Grand Prix weekend," said Rossiter, who last drove for Force India in pre-season testing. "The fact that Silverstone is my home race makes the news even sweeter," he added. The 29-year-old, who has earlier participated in karting, Formula Renault, British Formula Three and Formula 3 Euro Series, will look to gain more experience of the VJM06 to help ensure Force India`s simulator remains as close to the real car as possible. The time in the car will allow Rossiter to give greater feedback during race weekends when he normally supports the team from the factory by carrying out simulator running. The scheduled run for Rossiter is dependent on dry track conditions to ensure the team can gain meaningful feedback. "The main reason for driving the car is to help progress the team`s simulator programme, which I`ve been working on for almost 12 months," Rossiter said. "I drove the car during winter testing in February, but it`s valuable to have another opportunity to experience the real car and make sure it`s in harmony with the simulator." PTI