Mexican to partner Romain Grosjean at new American team
Monday 2 November 2015 11:10, UK
Esteban Gutierrez has been confirmed as Haas' second driver for their debut F1 season in 2016.
Confirming the worst-kept secret in F1 ahead of the Mexican GP, the 24-year-old will partner Romain Grosjean at the new team.
The signing sees the Mexican return to the cockpit after spending 2015 on the sidelines as Ferrari's reserve driver, having been dropped by Sauber at the end of 2014.
In his two years with the Swiss squad, Gutierrez scored points just once with a best finish of seventh at the 2013 Japanese GP.
But the experience Gutierrez has garnered during his year with Ferrari should prove valuable for Haas, who have entered into a technical partnership with the Scuderia. Haas will hope Gutierrez's knowledge of the Ferrari power unit and gearbox will help them hit the track running in 2016.
"I got to know Esteban through our relationship with Ferrari, and after looking at the success he's had to earn his role there, it became clear he was an excellent choice for our race team," said team owner Gene Haas.
"He's young and hungry, but not inexperienced. His two years running a full F1 schedule has given him some very good race experience, and having spent this season at Ferrari as their third driver allowed him to see firsthand the methodology that makes Ferrari such a power in Formula One.
"We're very happy to have Esteban as a part of our race team. Between him and Romain, we have a strong driver lineup that will help us develop our car and, ultimately, score some points in our inaugural season."
