FR3.5 leader Oliver Rowland to run Red Bull F1 car at Silverstone

An F1 run is the traditional reward for the mid-season FR3.5 points leader, and Racing Steps-backed Rowland will complete his on September 5-6.

The Fortec racer has claimed victory in four of the nine races so far this season, and holds a 26-point lead over Lotus Formula 1 junior Matthieu Vaxiviere.

Toro Rosso Formula 1 drivers Carlos Sainz Jr and Max Verstappen have demonstrated the 2013 Red Bull RB9 at this year's Motorland Aragon and Spa-Francorchamps World Series by Renault rounds.

"I was fortunate to drive a McLaren at Silverstone around four years ago for about 10 laps, and it's really good to have another go, especially with the Red Bull car and the old engine," said Rowland, whose McLaren outing was part his prize for winning the 2011 McLaren AUTOSPORT BRDC award.

"I am really looking forward to it, but the main focus will be the two [FR3.5] races in the weekend. The F1 run is a bonus.

"I haven't been told about the preparations yet, but thanks to Red Bull and to World Series for offering such a great opportunity."

In addition to his FR3.5 wins, Rowland produced standout a performance to take sixth at Monaco and scored points in both races of his GP2 debut at Silverstone.

The Sheffield driver has also come to the attention of Mercedes, for whom he has undertaken F1 simulator work.

Lewis Hamilton's 2014 race engineer Jock Clear has worked closely with Rowland in the simulator, in one of his duties before heading to Ferrari, where he will replace Pat Fry as head of engineering.