F1 test drivers | FerrariChat

F1 test drivers

Discussion in 'F1' started by mousecatcher, Aug 1, 2008.

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  1. mousecatcher

    mousecatcher Formula 3

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    Why do they have test drivers? Why aren't the drivers also the test drivers? Also, what do you think their salary is?
     
    mousecatcher, Aug 1, 2008
    #1
  2. maxorido

    maxorido Formula 3

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    Well the racing drivers do a majority of the testing these days. The thing is, usually testing is in consecutive days, 3-4 days of testing. It's quite a lot to ask the drivers to drive all those days, then deal with all their sponsor/ media commitments, then the fitness training, then their own lives. It's important for the drivers to have some time to relax, so they can be fully charged and mentally prepared. As for a test driver salary, I haven't read anything regarding that. Although I'm sure guys like Luca Badoer and Pedro de la Rosa make a nice living, to say the least.
     
    maxorido, Aug 1, 2008
    #2
  3. RP

    RP F1 World Champ

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    Test drivers are also the team back-ups in case a primary driver gets hurt, fired, or arrested.
     
    RP, Aug 1, 2008
    #3
  4. Remy Zero

    Remy Zero Two Time F1 World Champ

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    or drunk ;)
     
    Remy Zero, Aug 1, 2008
    #4
  5. Senna3xWC

    Senna3xWC F1 Rookie

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    I recall reading somewhere that Alex Wurz was making $3 million as a McLaren test driver. I suspect Luca Badeour and Pedro de la Rosa are probably in that same region.
     
    Senna3xWC, Aug 1, 2008
    #5
  6. ProCoach

    ProCoach F1 Veteran Owner

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    The test drivers are also lower formula people who are being evaluated by the teams. They often bring money to the team...
     
    ProCoach, Aug 1, 2008
    #6

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