Apr.14 (GMM) Carmen Jorda says she is on track to test this year’s Lotus car.
The 26-year-old Spaniard’s appointment as development driver has been controversial, with many saying it was more about money or marketing than a serious effort to groom her as a future grand prix star.
But she is quoted by Germany’s Welt newspaper: “My aim for this year is to drive the E23 in the coming months.
“I will prepare for it in the simulator. It is planned that I will do at least 20 days before I go into the car,” Jorda, a former GP3 driver, added.
Interestingly, Jorda disagrees completely with fellow female test driver Susie Wolff, who is opposed to Bernie Ecclestone’s idea of an all-women’s F1 series.
Jorda said the very fact that women have never succeeded in formula one is evidence that they should not be competing head-to-head with men.
“What about Serena Williams against (Roger) Federer,” she told AFP news agency, drawing an analogy between motor racing and tennis.
“What’s going to happen? Ask him this next time!” said Jorda when told about Jenson Button’s claims that there is “no reason” women cannot race in F1 against men.