Jazeman Jaafar is on the brink of making his dream come true – racing in Formula One.
According to a statement from paultan.org, Jazeman has been offered a race seat with one of the Mercedes-powered teams in Formula One, in 2016.
The German-based engine manufacturer supplies engines to four teams, including world champions Mercedes. The others are Force India, Lotus and Williams. It was not stated on which Jazeman will join though.
“This is the pinnacle of motorsports. I’ve got an offer to do a full season next year. I’m ready to take it up a notch – my results over the last few years speak for themselves,” Jazeman proudly said.
The 22-year-old has done no wrong for himself after winning the Monaco round of the Formula Renault 3.5 Series in May, impressing everyone in the process.
The move to F1 comes at a price though, as he will have to secure his own sponsorship backing. Jazeman has been under the Petronas talent Development programme for the last four years, and reports added that the move will need an annual budget of 15 million euros (RM63 million) per season.
“This kind of opportunity only comes once. I may not get the chance next time. It’s all about having the funding to make it happen and that’s something I hope the relevant parties can come in and support me,” added Jazeman, who has obtained his FIA Super Licence in Portugal last September.
If this becomes a reality, Jazeman will only be the second ever Malaysian to race in a Formula One car, after Alex Yoong (2001-2002).
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