Merhi handed Caterham practice drive for Japan

Roberto Merhi will take part in his second Formula One practice session after Caterham confirmed the Spanish youngster will drive for them in FP1 at Suzuka.

The 23-year-old former European F3 champion, who is currently second in this year’s Formula Renault 3.5 championship, made his Grand Prix weekend debut with Caterham in Italy in September, deputising for Kamui Kobayashi in the opening 90-minute session.

“I’m very happy to be driving in another FP1 session with Caterham F1 Team,” said Merhi.

“I want to thank the team for this opportunity - after my first outing a month ago in Italy, I am now looking forward to another 90 minutes in the car. I will not be starting from zero like last time, so I will be able to get up to speed quicker.

“I have never driven in Japan, so I will need to learn the track at the same time as I continue to get used to the car, but it’s a dream come true to be able to drive at such a special track like Suzuka, I just can’t wait for it to be Friday!”