Guy Smith tests for Bentley

Guy Smith begins Bentley testing.

Briton Guy Smith begins his duties as official test driver for Team Bentley with a three-day endurance test at the Paul Ricard Circuit in France this. The 27 year old from Hull, who raced for the team at last year's Le Mans 24 Hours, will not be racing for the team in the 2002 event following the teams' decision to run just one car. He has however been retained as test and development driver.

Guy had previously planned to take part in this year's race with the Jim Matthews Racing Riley & Scott, however his role as reserve driver for Team Bentley will prevent his participation in the event, which takes place on June 15th /16th.

"Obviously I'm very disappointed not be racing in this year's Le Mans, either for Bentley or Jim Matthews, but in the circumstances I feel the testing role I've been asked to undertake for Team Bentley must be my priority. I'm sure that the reliability already proven by the Riley & Scott would have enabled us to have a very strong finish in the race. Now however, my position within the Bentley team requires me to be present at the event for them and that is what my decision has been based on," said Guy.

Guy travelled to Paul Ricard over the weekend for three days of testing at the French circuit beginning on Monday, where extensive endurance testing will be carried out prior to the classic sportscar event.

- www.guysmith.com