Manor: Jordan King to take part in FP1 in Austin

A newcomer will appear on the official rankings of the free practice sessions at the United States Grand Prix this weekend. The British driver Jordan King will indeed be behind the wheel of Pascal Wehrlein’s Manor during FP1.

King, who is currently ranked 5th in the GP2 championship, had already conducted tests at the end of last year as part of trials organized by Pirelli in Abu Dhabi. But this first time in Austin will mark his official debut in the discipline: “It’s a dream come true. But at the same time, I have a job to do on the car on Friday, and I want to make sure I bring as much as possible and the best feedback to help with the challenge of the United States Grand Prix,” exclaimed the 22-year-old.

A further step towards a future in Formula 1 in 2017? The Briton firmly believes so: « It’s another big step in the right direction after two very positive tests on the MRT05, which have allowed me to reach this opportunity. »

Dave Ryan, the sporting director of Manor, is convinced of the good work that King will bring to his team: “It will be a good thing to give Jordan his first FP1. He has done very good work as a development driver and this opportunity was planned in his program.”

WOW what a way to start the week with the announcement I will be doing FP1 for @ManorRacing in Austin @circuitamericas

— Jordan King (@42jordanking) 17 October 2016

However, while it is indeed a new step for the Briton, it should not be seen as an evaluation session for a potential full-time position next season. Indeed, due to the new FIA rules, the GP2 driver only has four points to his Super License (for his 7th place in European F3 in 2014) instead of the required 40.

If he wishes to join the F1 grid in 2017 (provided he maintains his current fifth place in the GP2 championship), he will have to be part of the top three next season in GP2.