The test was conducted on the layout of the Barcelona race track – the same that will host some F1 tests in about 3 weeks – and the duo swapped places inside the GP2 simulator through one day of action. And although Sordo was competing “at home”, on a track that he used to run before, it was Meeke who went on to score the best time.
“I've previously worked with a gaming company helping develop a new game which involved spending a lot of time on a computer console,” explained Meeke, “so I've been used to this kind of environment, although this simulator is much more like real life than any computer game and specifically used by professional racers to learn circuits and improve their technique.”
Both Meeke and Sordo will continue their testing programme on the MINI Countryman during the month of February, as Prodrive has planned a couple of tests in Spain and France, this time on gravel. This should keep the two drivers pumped up for their official 2011 WRC debut with the car, scheduled for early May, in Italy.
“We’ve got two tests coming up in February. Kris has also been doing several days of demonstrations, which gives him plenty of time in the car,” confirmed Prodrive’s commercial operations boss Richard Taylor.
To further avoid a potential “rusting” process of their two drivers, MINI World Championship Team will also enter Meeke and Sordo in the recces of the events that are to be part of the WRC schedule next year.
“Certainly we’re looking at that for events we expect to be in the championship next year. It will obviously make sense for the drivers to do those recces so we’re looking to put that in place as well,” he added.
Google News