Winkelhock tests for Midland

Markus Winkelhock, the son of ex-Formula One driver Manfred, has been named as a Midland test driver for next year.

The 25-year-old tested for the Silverstone-based team, formerly known as Jordan, in December and has earned the chance to test on grand prix Fridays after Nicky Pastorelli ran into financial difficulties.

Pastorelli was announced as Midland’s third driver last year but he lost a sponsor, giving Winkelhock the chance to step in. Midland’s announcement hinted at another driving sharing testing duties.

Winkelhock, who finished third in the Renault World Series last year, said: “This opportunity with Midland is fantastic for me. I know the team has a big development programme for the new car and I look forward to being constructively involved with it.”

Midland managing director Colin Kolles was impressed with Winkelhock’s brief spell in a Formula One car.

He said: “Markus showed true class in the test before Christmas. He was immediately at home in a Formula One car and he will be a big asset to our development programme this year.”