Alesi to Test for McLaren

Frenchman Jean Alesi will return to the wheel of a Formula One car next month, when he tests for the McLaren team from March 4 to 6.

The 37-year old, who retired from Formula One at the end of last season, will drive the 2001-spec MP4-16B right after the first Grand Prix of the season in Australia, which will take place on March 3.

Alesi, who will drive in the German DTM this year, was looking forward to the test.

"Obviously I'm looking forward to sitting behind the wheel of a Formula One car again and I'm sure that driving a West McLaren Mercedes is going to be an experience," said Alesi. "I have no plans to return to Formula One competition and am 100 per cent committed to my DTM Championship challenge with Mercedes-Benz.

"However a drive in a West McLaren Mercedes car was missing from my Formula One CV and I'm really looking forward to the challenge."

Alesi took part in 201 Grands Prix scoring only one victory at the 1995 the Canadian Grand Prix for the Ferrari team.

"Following the test, Jean will concentrate on his DTM programme," said McLaren managing director Martin Whitmarsh. "Jean has extensive Formula One experience and we are, therefore, pleased to have this opportunity to benefit from his knowledge."