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De Villota tests for Renault

Eric Boullier was pleased with Maria de Villota's performance © Sutton Images

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Maria de Villota - the daughter of ex-F1 driver Emilio de Villota - has completed a test for Renault at Paul Ricard.

De Villota, who currently drives in Superleague Formula for the Atletico Madrid team, clocked up over 300km in an R29 at Paul Ricard with Renault saying 'the aim of the drive was to provide Maria with her first taste of F1, and allow her to become familiar with the onboard systems and car balance.' Teams are allowed a limited number of days to test at least two-years-old cars and De Villota told the Official Renault F1 website that the test had been an enjoyable one.

"As a female driver, I was very happy to get the opportunity to drive in a Formula 1 car," De Villota said. "Formula 1 is the pinnacle of motor racing and has always been a dream for me. The running went very well, conditions were ideal, and the team made me feel at ease straight away.

"It did not take too long to get used to the car and, after I felt comfortable with it, I was able to start pushing and, as a result, really enjoyed the experience. I have been impressed by Lotus Renault GP's professionalism. I want to thank the team a lot for this opportunity."

De Villota also told AS that plans for a potential move to Formula One in the near future were ongoing.

"I've always wanted to reach Formula One and after this test I know more clearly than ever that I can do it, I can drive a F1 car. Physically and as a driver I'm at my best, so I have to use it. We are working on it already. It will not be overnight, but we have to do it soon."

Renault team principal Eric Boullier said the team had monitored De Villota's performance throughout the day, and was impressed at her progress.

"We were delighted to offer María the chance to drive in the R29," Boullier said. "As a team, we pride ourselves on our ability to assess new talents and offer different drivers opportunities with us. María did exactly what was expected of her; she took things one step at a time, and achieved some very reasonable laptimes, not putting a foot wrong all day."

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