F1: Lotus signs Jorda to development role

GP3 racer Carmen Jorda has secured a development driver role with the Lotus Formula 1 team and will test its 2015 car. A team statement said the 26-year-old Spaniard would get "a significant simulator program" along with her run in the new E23 at some point this year.

"I've been racing since I was 10 years old so it was my dream to drive a Formula 1 car since I was very young," she said. "I will be working to improve myself as a driver as well as helping the team to develop the car by testing new developments in the simulator; it's such a fantastic opportunity.

"I know this is just the beginning and the biggest challenge is yet to come but already being part of a team with such a history is a real honor. This is a great achievement, but an even greater opportunity which will lead to bigger and better things."

Lotus CEO Matthew Carter said Jorda would bring "a fresh perspective" to the team.

"She is a unique addition to the team and we are looking forward to helping her progress her goals as well as receiving the benefit of her insights and contributions to the development of the E23," he said.

Jorda has spent the past three seasons in GP3, where her best race finish was a 13th place. Her career also includes stints in Indy Lights and sports car racing.

Originally on Autosport.com