Schumacher to help develop the 2011/13 GP2 Series car

Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher will help develop the 2011/13 GP2 Series car in Jerez and gains some motorsport mileage before the first Formula One test in February. In preparation for his much-awaited return to Formula One next season with MERCEDES GP PETRONAS, Michael Schumacher will take part in a three-day GP2 Series test session in Jerez, Spain this week.

Following the approval of the FIA, the GP2 Series and the Formula One Testing Committee, Michael will drive the GP2 development car for three days from Tuesday 12 January to Thursday 14 January.

Michael's desire to drive a high-performance competition vehicle as part of his preparations has found a match in the objectives of the GP2 Series to develop the 2011/2013 car. As GP2 are currently defining the technical features of the Series' third generation car which will debut in Spring 2011, the Series organisers saw a fantastic opportunity to benefit from Michael's experience and his legendary technical abilities.

One of the main goals of the three-day test will be to evaluate numerous suspension configurations in order to define several new set-up solutions which will provide more flexibility to GP2 drivers and engineers during the race weekends. Alongside that programme, the test will see the evaluation and validation of updated components, including a new clutch, to be introduced later this year.

GP2 Organiser Bruno Michel said: "Today's test marks a milestone for the GP2 Series. It is an honour and a privilege for us to have seven-time Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher help us to develop our car. The goal of the GP2 Series is to prepare young drivers for Formula One. This test will prove to be very important for the future of our GP2 drivers and will be a confirmation of the high-standards and competitiveness of our Series. Michael's input and advice will be invaluable. I am confident that his knowledge and unparalleled driving skills will help us to develop a great car for next season."