By Joey Barnes, Editor-in-Chief
Force India is handing Alfonso Celis Jr. the keys and allowing the young Mexican to make his official Formula 1 debut at the opening free practice session during the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend.
Celis, 19, will replace fellow countryman Sergio Perez at the Sakhir International Circuit, in what will be his first of seven scheduled outings for the 2016 season.
The development driver took part in a Pirelli tire test at the end of last season at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, and also put two days in behind the wheel of this year’s car, the VJM09, at the first pre-season test at Barcelona’s Catalunya circuit.
Celis will also compete in Formula V8 3.5 with AVF in addition to his duties at Force India for the 2016 season.
Image: Force India
