FMaster: van Dam interested?

Carlo van Dam's name may have to be added to those being considered as potential Formula Master frontrunners after he tested with Pro Motorsport at Albacete this week.

Although the test took place in an ageing F3000 machine - the FMaster machines not being delivered until March - Pro invited FRenault Eurocup racewinner van Dam to the Spanish circuit with the idea of checking his potential for the new WTCC support series.

With temperatures failing to nudge much above four degrees Celsius, and ice on the track taking its time to melt completely, van Dam began cautiously as he got to know the team and the powerful Lola B99/50, which Pro has been campaigning, successfully, in the F3000 Masters series in recent years. However, the Dutchman had little trouble adapting to the car and, after some installation laps, began to reduce his times, until he was ducking under those posted by Italian drivers Marcello Puglisi and Davide di Benedetto on the previous two days. Even though mechanical problems then limited his running for the rest of the day, team co-ordinator Salvatore Tavano admitted that it had been pleased with what he had seen.

"This was a short, but powerful test," van Dam reported, "This type of F3000 car has been around for a while, and you can notice that. It only has five gears, low aerodynamic grip and only a few electronic driver aids - and it was quite some time ago that I had to use a clutch while shifting down!

"The powerful engine compensates for it all though, as it means you are constantly trying to keep this unguided missile on the track. I really enjoyed driving this car, and my lap times were very good, especially compared to the amount of kilometres I did in the car. The team has a real professional approach, especially regarding the new International Formula Masters series, and I would like to thank Salvatore Tavano and his entire crew for inviting me for this test and having this confidence in me."