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Test Driver
Team Personnel
A Test Driver is a professional who evaluates and develops racing vehicles without competing in actual races, providing critical feedback to improve the car's performance.
Test drivers conduct extensive track sessions to assess how new parts, setups, and software affect vehicle behavior. They communicate detailed observations about handling, engine performance, and reliability to engineering teams, helping identify problems and validate improvements.
In Formula 1, teams employ dedicated test drivers like Liam Lawson and Pato O'Ward who work alongside race drivers during development. These roles often serve as stepping stones for young talents aiming to secure future race seats while providing teams with valuable technical insights.