Nick Yelloly could become Force India’s official third driver if he impresses during a test outing for the team in Barcelona.

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The young Briton is taking part in his first F1 test on Tuesday at the Circuit de Catalunya, driving the VJM08.

With Yelloly also racing for Force India-affiliated Hilmer Motorsport in GP2, Force India deputy team principal Bob Fernley told F1i the outing is the next step in preparing him for a potential future third driver role.

“He’s been with us for a little while actually and he’s doing a super job on the simulator program, so the idea behind this is to give him some actual track experience so that it enhances his simulator development program,” Fernley said.

With Fernley confirming Force India is still talking about who should be its third driver, he says Yelloly is currently top of the list.

“I think we should always keep doors open and Nick’s proving to be a very valuable team member. Obviously he’s doing some work with Hilmer now as well, so all that bodes well for him for the future.”

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