GP2: Leimer aims for F1 after Pirelli test

Reigning GP2 champion Fabio Leimer says he is still aiming to race in Formula 1 after completing his test at the wheel of the Pirelli test car on Tuesday. The 25-year-old tested a 2012 Lotus F1 car at Paul Ricard as part of his prize for winning the GP2 title.

The Swiss driver won the 2013 title with Racing Engineering, but was unable to secure a seat in Formula 1 for this year. Leimer is instead racing in the World Endurance Championship with Rebellion, but he admits his sights are still set on an F1 drive.

"Getting back into Formula 1 is the goal, but you have to go where the opportunities are," said Leimer after the test. I hope to get back into Formula 1 but you have to keep an open mind."

Leimer completed 78 laps of the 3.8-kilometer configuration of the French circuit, using a total of seven sets of demo tires.

"It was an absolutely fantastic experience and I really enjoyed myself," he added. "In the morning we had a bit of understeer due to the conditions, but during the long runs in the afternoon I developed a really good feeling with the car and tires; the medium tire in particular was very consistent.

"It was a great opportunity and I could certainly see the difference in the various compounds I tested. I'd like to thank Pirelli for this chance that will definitely help me in future. Now I'm just looking forward to driving a Formula 1 car again."

Pirelli's racing manager Mario Isola added: "Fabio was impressive both in terms of his pace and his feedback.

"While our demo tires are not quite the same as the real Formula 1 tires, they are still enough to give a good idea of what it is like to drive at the very top level."