SpeedSport and Van Diemen driver programme
Aug 15th, 2007
Speedsport and chassis constructor Van Diemen have announced plans to run a British Formula Ford Van Diemen DP07 purely for testing, in a bid to nurture talented young drivers starting out in motorsport.
Van Diemen, with support from Ford, also believe that their links with America could help drivers plan a more structured path.
Speedsport boss Mike O’Brien, who also manages IRL racer Darren Manning and FFord frontrunner Callum MacLeod, added: “From my point of view I’m looking for the next star. From Van Diemen’s if a driver tests one they’ll probably buy one or do a deal for one and from Formula Ford’s point of view it attracts people to the series.”
Steve Jenner, Van Diemen managing director believes that the availability of a bespoke test car will help the series. “A lot of people enquire about testing a Formula Ford, but a lot of teams are too busy. Mike can provide a complete package and we want to be part of that. Driver development is something that Van Diemen wants to be part of because the more cars on the track the better the racing.”
Ford Europe’s Mike Norton supports the venture. “It’s good news for the championship and good news for Ford,” he said. “We’re working closely with Van Diemen because they are a big company.”
