Following successful tests this week with Algarve Pro Racing, Aidan Read has been confirmed as the team’s Test and Reserve driver for the 2017 European Le Mans Series.
Aidan competed with the team in the Asian Le Mans Series finale in Malaysia earlier this year, and this week at Monza, joined regular race drivers Andrea Roda, Andrea Pizzitola and Matt McMurry in what was a two-day test ahead of the opening round at Silverstone in April.
Under sunny skies at Monza, the team worked through an extensive programme with the Ligier JS P217, with Aidan working closely with the team in its preparations for both the European Le Mans Series and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
“It’s an honour to be selected as the Test and Reserve driver,” Aidan stated. “I like my teammates a great deal, so I wish them well, but if need be, the team know I can step in. We lost a bit of time on day one, but the second day went all according to plan. It was great to drive the Ligier at Monza, it’s a really iconic circuit and once I got used to the car and the impressive speeds, we worked through a great deal of the run-plan.
“This fits in with my programme for the season which is varied to say the least! This weekend I’m in the Porsche Cayman at Silverstone for the 24H Series, and then I’m off to Sepang with the FFF Racing team for round one of the Blancpain GT Series Asia. I’m going to be busy!”
For Algarve Pro Racing, teaming up Aidan again was an easy decision to make. “He fits in really well with the team, which is important,” said Team Manager Samantha Cox. “We know he will always do a good job behind the wheel as he’s really consistent and that’s crucial in endurance racing. He’s also growing with us and developing with every test, so it’s a real pleasure to have him on board.”
Aidan’s next event is this coming weekend where he makes his debut with OCC Lasik Racing in the Creventic 24H Silverstone.