Calderon hails 'incredible experience' after maiden F1 test

Tatiana Calderon hailed her maiden Formula 1 test with Sauber as an “incredible experience” after completing 100 km in the team’s C37 car at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico on Tuesday.

Calderon is the most prominent female racer on the ladder towards F1, currently racing in GP3, and has been working with Sauber in a development role since the start of 2017.

Sauber confirmed last week that Calderon would be completing her first F1 running behind the wheel of its 2018-spec car following the Mexican Grand Prix, staying on for a promotional filming day.

Calderon completed 23 laps of the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez on Tuesday, with Sauber reporting that she “quickly adapted to the demands of driving at the highest level in motorsport” and was “impressing the team with her professionalism and dedication.”

“Driving the Sauber C37 today was an incredible experience. The power, braking and grip of this car are unbelievable, and I felt very comfortable on track,” Calderon said.

“After a few laps, you start getting used to the speed, and I had lots of fun. I want to thank the Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team, Excuderia Telmex, Telcel, Infinitum and Claro for giving me this opportunity today, and trusting me to do the job.

“This is a day I will remember forever.”

Calderon worked with Sauber head of track engineering Xevi Pujolar in Mexico, who was also impressed by her work in the C37 car.

"Tatiana drove a Formula 1 car for the first time today and did a very good job. We are happy to see her perform so well, and once again were impressed by her dedication and work ethic,” Pujolar said.

“This event marks a positive step for our sport, and we look forward to seeing Tatiana continue to make progress."