Former FPA star Hildebrand handed Force India test

American becomes second ex-Formula Palmer Audi driver to sample F1 in 2009

Ex-FPA driver and 2009 Indy Lights Champion J R Hildebrand will enjoy his first taste of an F1 car this December after being handed a run by the Force India team in the forthcoming test at Jerez, Spain.

The 21-year-old Californian is due to test the solitary VJM02 car alongside DTM frontrunner Paul di Resta, with the pair sharing driving duties over the first two days of the test.

It marks a new high in an impressive career so far for the talented American, who only graduated into single seaters in 2004 - winning the Formula Russell title at the first time of asking. The following year he moved across the Atlantic to compete in the 2005 Formula Palmer Audi Autumn Trophy, where he finished third overall with three podiums and only one finish outside the top four to his credit.

He has also won the 2006 Formula Ford USA Championship - where he dominated proceedings to take 12 victories from 14 races - and the 2009 Indy Lights titles, as well as contesting two races in A1GP.

Speaking to Autosport, the Californian said: "I'm ecstatic to get my first taste of F1. I've heard so much about the performance of the cars and know this is going to be quicker and more responsive than anything I've ever sat in before.

"I know it's a big challenge but I feel ready to tackle it. The aim is to learn the track and the car and then hopefully show my potential.

"As an American we don't necessarily have the culture of F1 but anything that's so impressive and cutting-edge demands respect. I hope I can do the car and myself justice."