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Marussia ’made most sense’ for rookie Pic - Panis

"When you have the opportunity to do it, you do not pass it up"

By GMM

7 December 2011 - 08:15

The French sports daily L’Equipe on Tuesday quoted Charles Pic as saying his target for next season is to "reach the level" of his experienced teammate Timo Glock "as soon as possible".

The French newcomer, speaking in Paris, has been signed by the former Virgin team Marussia for 2012 and 2013.

"I have known him since he was very young," said his manager Olivier Panis, who revealed that Pic’s career has been supported by another former French F1 driver, Eric Bernard.

Pic is quoted by Le Figaro: "I’m flying to England tomorrow to be at the factory to get to know the staff and start working with the engineers and in the simulator."

1996 Monaco grand prix winner Panis said Marussia is the perfect first team for Pic.

"It means a little less pressure for him to start with. Alonso started at Minardi, Vettel at Toro Rosso, I started at Ligier, Senna started at Toleman.

"There are only 24 F1 drivers in the whole world and so when you have the opportunity to do it, you do not pass it up.

"We had two options and, for me, Marussia made the most sense."

It is believed Panis, 45, will travel with Pic throughout the 2012 season.