Sean Gelael completed his first day of testing in a Formula 1 car on Tuesday, completing 78 laps of the Bahrain International Circuit for Scuderia Toro Rosso.
The Indonesian was delighted to have the opportunity to run with the Faenza-based team, and got a significant amount of running in as he worked through data gathering programs, primarily for the 2017 Pirelli tyre compounds.
Gelael says he will never forget the day he first tested a Formula 1 car, and is already itching to return to the seat, with his next scheduled test to come at the next in-season test at the Hungaroring.
“Today is a day I will never forget – to finally drive a Formula 1 car is something every driver dreams of, and to do it with Scuderia Toro Rosso makes it even more special,” said Gelael. “What an amazing feeling!
“This year’s car is a beast, it’s so quick! I settled in nicely throughout the day and we definitely made progress. I was able to complete plenty of laps and get used to the car quickly.
“The power and overall grip is amazing and, compared to the Formula 2 car I drive, the grip under braking and the kerb riding are two of the biggest differences I felt.
“Honestly, it’s really fun to drive and I’d like to thank everyone who made this possible! I now can’t wait to drive the STR12 again in a few months’ time at the test in Hungary.”