Fittipaldi stays on as Haas’ F1 reserve driver

Pietro Fittipaldi will continue as Haas’ Formula 1 test and reserve driver for a fifth consecutive season.

Fittipaldi joined Haas ahead of the 2019 campaign and stepped in to replace Romain Grosjean for the final two rounds of the 2020 season.

Fittipaldi was an outside contender to replace the exiled Nikita Mazepin prior to 2022 before Haas re-signed Kevin Magnussen on a multi-year deal.

Fittipaldi stayed on as Haas’ back-up, participating in two practice sessions per Formula 1’s regulations, and will retain the role for 2023.

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“I’ve said before that continuity and consistency is key to success in Formula 1 and Pietro remaining with the team for 2023 makes me believe that we have strong foundations,” said Haas Team Principal Guenther Steiner.

“In Formula 1, you need to be able to react within the smallest of margins to any scenario, and Pietro is a proven performer and is ready to step in at any time to get behind the wheel and drive, as he did twice in 2020.

“Last season he took part in pre-season testing, two free-practice sessions and post-season testing in the VF-22 and surprisingly unlike many drivers on the grid, he’s said this car suits his aggressive style, which is music to my ears when track time is so limited.

“He’s an asset to our team so I look forward to seeing his continuation with us this season.” 

Fittipaldi will dovetail his Haas duties with a race programme in the LMP2 division of the World Endurance Championship.

“I’m very happy to be continuing with Haas, a team that I consider family,” said Fittipaldi.

“Last year I did two free practice sessions, tested at the beginning of the year and at the end of season test so we’ve already been able to try some stuff for the new season.

“I’m excited to see the new car and new developments, and I hope that we’re able to make an even bigger step forward with the VF-23.”

Haas is the only team yet to set a launch date for its 2023 Formula 1 car.