In the run-up to the start of pre-season testing Motorsport Week brings you left-field reflections and stories of teams, drivers and reserves that will be part of the Formula 1 paddock in 2019. Today marks the final instalment – thanks to everyone for reading!
By the back end of 2008 Red Bull was readying Sebastien Buemi as the latest driver from its junior team conveyer belt, with a vacancy opening at Toro Rosso.
Buemi had finished sixth in his first full season of competition in the GP2 Series, having finished as runner-up in F3 Euroseries the previous year.
At the Japanese Grand Prix in October Buemi was present with Red Bull but was called up to perform a different duty.
Regular FIA Medical Car driver Jacques Tropenat had been sidelined with an ear infection and a suitable replacement was required.
Step forward Buemi – who was therefore at the back of the grid at Fuji aboard the Medical Car!
Buemi didn’t have to wait long for his real Formula 1 debut – that came six months later in Australia, having been signed to Toro Rosso.
He hasn’t raced in Formula 1 since 2011, not tested a car since 2014, but retains a link to the championship through his role as Red Bull Racing’s test and reserve driver.
