Photo: Alastair Staley/GP2 Series Media Service
GP2 Series ace James Calado is now managed by Nicolas Todt, it has been announced.
Calado joins Todt’s All Road Management stable, which also looks after Formula 1 stars Felipe Massa, Pastor Maldonado and Jules Bianchi as well as Formula Renault racer Alex Baron and karting whiz Charles Leclerc. Calado takes the place of Aaro Vainio, who was dropped by Todt after finishing fourth in last year’s GP3 Series.
Calado has raced for Todt’s ART Grand Prix team since 2011, when he finished runner-up in GP3 to team-mate Valtteri Bottas. Promoted to the GP2 squad, he enjoyed an impressive rookie campaign. This year he began the season as the title favourite, though only sits fifth in the standings after a challenging opening couple of rounds.
Calado’s career so far has been supported by the Racing Steps Foundation, but Todt will provide additional contacts and financing to help move him up to F1.
?I am delighted to have James join ARM,” said Todt. “Through my role at ART Grand Prix team for whom James is currently in his second year racing in GP2, I have been strongly impressed by his talent, attitude and level of commitment since his very successful GP3 campaign. I hope that James will fight for the GP2 title and prove that he deserves to enter the F1 elite.
“I wish to thank the RSF founder, Graham Sharp and Derek Walters for their contribution. They have sustained and guided James towards his successful racing career and will continue to be a strategic partner for the further development of his career.”
Calado added: “I’m extremely honoured to be part of All Road Management. I have always known Nicolas to be one of the best managers in the business. In making this journey I must make clear my great debt to the RSF and Graham Sharp for their immense support without which none of this would have been possible.”