Derani, Giovinazzi and Menezes get LMP1 test chances

The trio all currently race in the LMP2 class of the global endurance series - Derani and Giovinazzi for Extreme Speed Motorsports and Menezes for Signatech Alpine - and will be getting their first taste of LMP1 machinery on 20 November, the day after the season finale.

Derani will sample the Toyota TS050 Hybrid, while Giovinazzi will get behind the wheel of the Audi R18 e-tron quattro and Menezes will drive the Porsche 919 Hybrid.

All three manufacturers also have the opportunity to test other drivers during the rookie test if they wish, while any other team racing in the 6 Hours of Bahrain will also have the opportunity to test.

“The rookie test is a fantastic opportunity for these three up-and-coming endurance drivers to test an LMP1 prototype, the most technologically advanced race cars in the world," said WEC CEO Gerard Neveu.

"We looked in depth at drivers from within the world of endurance racing before making the selection, and believe that Pipo Derani, Antonio Giovinazzi and Gustavo Menezes fully deserved the opportunity to demonstrate their talent and potential. 

"This rookie test will give drivers an added bonus to their season, and forms an important element in the progressive career path available within the endurance family.”

While GP2 points leader Giovinazzi makes his WEC debut this weekend at Fuji, Derani won both the Sebring 12 Hours and Daytona 24 Hours outright early this year, while Menezes took class victory in the Le Mans 24 Hours in June.