Force India F1 team signs Alfonso Celis as 2016 development driver

Force India has signed GP3 racer Alfonso Celis as a development driver for the 2016 Formula 1 season

Mexican Celis will get his first chance behind the wheel of a F1 car at the one-day post-Abu Dhabi Grand Prix test, sharing driving duties with Nico Hulkenberg.

As part of the deal, the 19-year-old will take part in seven practice sessions over the course of next season as well as conducting work in the simulator.

Celis is racing for ART this season in GP3, scoring one podium and is currently 13th in the drivers' standings with two race weekends to go.

He also contested the Formula Renault 3.5 series this term with AVF, finishing 16th overall with a best finish of fourth.

"Ever since I started racing I've been dreaming of Formula 1, so it's a huge honour to begin working with Force India," said Celis.

"It's an amazing opportunity for me to learn about Formula One and to work closely with the engineers and race drivers.

"Being on the track in Abu Dhabi will be an incredible feeling.

"It's going to be the biggest moment in my career and I am fully focused on doing a good job for the team."

Team boss Vijay Mallya said: "As our development driver we will work hard to prepare Alfonso for the demands of driving in Formula 1 and provide a good grounding in all aspects of the job.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for him to learn from Sergio and Nico, and to get valuable mileage in the car."