Force India has announced that its 17-year-old development driver, Nikita Mazepin, will drive at the forthcoming Silverstone test.

In a curious move, the team revealed the Russian will drive both days of the test, which takes place on the 12th and 13th of July.

Mazepin, who was announced in his development role with the team in February, is currently competing in the FIA European Formula 3 Championship with Hi-Tech Racing. He has already attended several Formula One events with the team this season and has begun an extensive simulator programme at Force India's Silverstone HQ.

"I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to test the VJM09 at Silverstone," said Mazepin. "There's no doubt it will be the biggest moment of my career and it's something I've been working towards my whole life. It's been a few months since I joined the team and I feel ready for this opportunity. I know it's an important test for the team and they will be counting on me to do a good job, so I will work hard to make sure we achieve our objectives."

"In just a few months since his announcement as a development driver, Nikita has shown a great level of technical understanding to go with his driving skills," added Vijay Mallya. "His progress in our simulator has been excellent and to be in the car during this test is the next step in his natural progression within the team. We are looking forward to working with him in Silverstone."