Red Bull name Sebastien Buemi as test and reserve driver

 

Reuters
Thursday 05 January 2012 11:44 GMT
Comments

Red Bull Racing have thrown a Formula One lifeline to Switzerland's Sebastien Buemi by appointing him as their test and reserve driver after he was discarded by sister team Toro Rosso.

The 23-year-old will be back-up for double world champion Sebastian Vettel and Australian Mark Webber at the team.

"It's good to remain with Red Bull for another year and have this opportunity with the World Championship winning team," Buemi said in a statement.

"I would prefer to be driving at the races of course, but working with Red Bull Racing on the development of their car and providing them with feedback throughout the season is the next best thing."

Buemi has been backed by Red Bull since 2004 and made his race debut in 2009 with Italian-based Toro Rosso, who will have an all-new line-up next year.

"He already knows the team well from his time with us in 2008 and has gained significant race experience over the past three years," Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said.

"He will complete important test and simulation work for us throughout the year and will be in attendance at each grand prix."

Only former champions Williams and struggling HRT have clear vacancies remaining for the season that starts in Australia on March 18.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in