French GP2 driver Charles Pic’s manager has confirmed talks about securing a place in F1 next year for the 21-year-old.
Pic, fourth in this year’s GP2 championship, has been linked recently with a Toro Rosso test in Abu Dhabi next month, and possibly a race seat with Virgin in 2012. His mentor and manager Olivier Panis, however, indicated that a role as a “third driver” for Pic is most likely.
“We have had discussions mainly with Team Lotus and Virgin Racing,” said the former grand prix winner, working with Pic’s management Lagardere. “There are two other possibilities that Charles will be in F1 next year, as a third driver, but nothing is signed yet and the discussions are continuing,” Panis told the French daily L’Equipe.
He admitted that the first step for Pic is a seat in November’s young driver test in Abu Dhabi.
“It is important he takes part in the rookie days in order to gain experience,” said Panis.
Source:GMM
