Former Formula One driver Esteban Gutierrez will make his debut in endurance racing this season, joining Inter Europol Competition in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
The Mexican driver, who contested 59 Grands Prix with Sauber and Haas between 2013 and 2016, will partner Kuba Smiechowski and Alex Brundle aboard the team’s #34 ORECA 07-Gibson.
Gutierrez effectively replaces Renger van der Zande in the team’s line-up, with the Dutchman unable to contest a second season due to clashing IMSA commitments.
“I am pleased to join the Inter Europol Competition team for the FIA WEC 2022 season,” Gutierrez said. “A thank you to the team for the opportunity to have me race together with Kuba Smiechowski and Alex Brundle.
“With the team’s progress and our combined ambition, I am confident we will make an excellent team. Endurance racing is a new challenge for me.”
“I will focus on learning as much as possible and as soon as possible. It is an honour for me to return to racing in this competitive and prestigious series.”
Gutierrez has not raced anything other than single-seater machinery in his career. Following his departure from the Haas F1 Team at the end of 2016, the 30-year-old took part in seven IndyCar races as a stand-in for the injured Sebastien Bourdais.
He also raced in Formula E briefly and was a reserve driver with the Mercedes Formula One team until 2020, when it became apparent that he was no longer eligible for a Super License.
“We are happy to welcome Esteban to the team,” said team manager Sascha Fassbender. “I am confident that this will be a strong year for the team.”
“A thank you to Renger van de Zande who, with Alex and Kuba, worked hard last year to bring us to this level.”
“With Esteban in the team, we have a strong line-up to achieve our ambitions. I look forward to working together to accomplish great things this season.”
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