Date set for Leimer's prize F1 test

GP2 champion Fabio Leimer will drive Pirelli's Lotus Formula 1 test car at Paul Ricard next week.

Pirelli put up the prize of a test in its 2012 Lotus at the start of last season, and has finally arranged for the Swiss driver to get his outing in France on Tuesday. He will have to run on demonstration tires for the 300km test, but will be given different compounds to get an insight into the F1 rubber.

Pirelli's racing manager Mario Isola said: "We're delighted that Fabio will get the chance to drive a Formula 1 car as part of his prize for winning GP2, underlining our commitment to do everything we can to help our GP2 drivers reach the top."

Leimer was unable to secure an F1 drive after winning GP2, and is racing in the World Endurance Championship with Rebellion.

His outing for Pirelli will not be his first F1 test, though, for he drove for Sauber during a young driver test in Abu Dhabi in 2011.