Stoneman gets first taste of F1 with Williams
At the first day of the young driver test at Abu Dhabi, Dean Stoneman got his first taste of driving an F1 car at Williams. Dean completed some useful aero testing work in the morning while the team were impressed by his pace an professionalism in the afternoon.
Tom McCullough, Senior Test Engineer:
Dean Stoneman was in the cockpit today for the first day of the young driver test. We did aero work this morning, from which we’ve accumulated useful data. Dean used the afternoon to familiarise himself with the car and put some times on the board. He went quicker every lap he completed, worked well with his engineers and overall did a professional job for the team. We’re impressed by him. Tomorrow, Pastor Maldonado will drive the Williams and we will spend the day continuing our aero tests.
Dean Stoneman:
That was slightly different to what I’m used to! It’s a big step up from a Formula 2 car, particularly the difference in aero. It was good to start off with some speed-limited aero work as it allowed me to build up to doing quicker laps in the afternoon. Towards the end of the day, I just kept pushing to see where the limit of the car is and where I could improve my times around the lap. Today was a great experience and the team have been really supportive. It’s also been a major opportunity for me. To be given the chance of driving a Formula One car doesn’t come around that often, so I feel very privileged.
Driver: Dean Stoneman
Chassis / engine: FW32-01 / CA221
Location: Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi. 5.554km / 3.451 miles
Objectives: Aero testing, baseline and familiarisation runs
Weather: Warm with some cloud
Air & track temps: 33ºC / 29ºC
