Sato gets his first F1 drive

Takuma Sato, today became the youngest Japanese driver to test in Formula One, when he was invited to drive for Benson and Hedges Jordan Honda during the team’s final day of testing in Jerez. The 23 year old has had a blinding second half of a season scoring four wins and clinching third place in the 2000 British Formula 3 Championship.

With there currently being no Japanese drivers in Formula One, Takuma is being promoted as a possible star of the future by Honda, Jordan’s new engine supplier, although his recent performances suggest he would get a test on merit anyway.

Sato impressed all and managed to complete a total of 42 laps, concentrating on balancing work to get the feel for the EJ10. He did have a spin in wet conditions during the afternoon, but did a very respectable job – finishing 14th, ahead of Eddie Irvine and Williams test driver Marc Gene – and clearly enjoyed himself.

"It is fantastic to have been given such an opportunity, it is a big step for me," said Sato. "I found the Jordan Honda EJ10 to have lots of power and amazing downforce and braking - it is very different to Formula 3!"

Jarno Trulli focused on tyre programs and completed 72 laps in worsening conditions. The test session was cut short due to heavy rain in the late afternoon.