Marco Andretti to test Formula 1 car in Spain

Marco Andretti, the 19-year-old grandson of Mario Andretti, will test a Formula One car this week in Spain as part of the Honda Racing F1 winter development program.

Photo: Marco Andretti to test Formula 1 car in Spain

Andretti, the son of Michael Andretti, will test Friday in Jerez, Spain.

"It will be a pleasure for us to give him the chance of his first experience of Formula One," Honda team sporting director Gil de Ferran said.

Andretti, the Indy Racing League's rookie of the year and runner-up in the Indianapolis 500, still plans to drive for his father's Andretti Green Racing team in the IRL next season.

"I've said all along that I'm a racer," the younger Andretti said. "I'll drive anything with a motor. ... I still have my sights set on the IndyCar Series; there are still some things I need to accomplish. But to have the opportunity to put in some laps in an F1 car is an opportunity that you don't pass up."

Michael Andretti raced in F1 for McLaren or part of the 1993 season and was the last American driver in the series until Scott Speed this year. Mario Andretti was the 1978 Formula One champion, reports AP.

Marco Andretti joined his grandfather, father and uncle, Jeff Andretti, as Indianapolis 500 rookies of the year. He also was the IndyCar series' top rookie, finishing seventh in season points.