Just a few days after the shakedown of the new GP2 Series single-seater on the Paul Ricard circuit, DAMS is heading for the Middle East where the first official test session in the winter break will take place. The team will evaluate five drivers over four days with the 2010 car using Romain Grosjean as benchmark.

Last week, the French driver put in some very quick laps during the shakedown of the new car. The team's ambition is to have a very successful 2011 season, and DAMS has begun its preparations program with this aim in mind.

Day 1: Tuesday 23rd November Nathanaël Berthon (French, 21 years old) Ivan Samarin (Russian, 22 years old)

Day 2: Wednesday 24th November Sam Bird (British, 23 years old) Pal Varhaug (Norwegian, 19 years old)

Day 3: Saturday 25th November Nathanaël Berthon Romain Grosjean (French, 24 years old)

Day 4: Sunday 28th November Jan Charouz (Czech, 23 years old) Pal Varhaug

Loïc David, General Manager: “At the end of the 2010 season our pace was such that had we begun the championship with the same level of competitiveness, we'd have been in the running for the title. Our aim for 2011 is to be ready and quick right from the first event. This is why the Abu Dhabi tests are so very important. This week's practice, even if it's with the old car, will help us to evaluate new drivers and prepare for the coming season in the best possible conditions.”