Alpine Academy member and Formula 2 driver Kush Maini has been signed by Alpine as a test and reserve driver for the upcoming Formula 1 season.
The Indian’s role within the French squad is expanding with the announcement, and joins Ryo Hirakawa, Paul Aron and Franco Colapinto as back-ups to regular race drivers Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan.
Maini will be present at much of the F1 races this year, on a count of continuing his stint in F2, switching to DAMS Lucas Oil after partnering reigning champion and new Sauber signing Gabriel Bortoleto at Invicta Racing last year.
“I am delighted to step up to the role of Test and Reserve Driver for BWT Alpine Formula 1 Team this season,” said Maini.
“Since joining the Alpine Academy ahead of last year, I have been incredibly welcomed in the entire Alpine family and I am thankful to Flavio [Briatore] and Oliver [Oakes] for their continued support.
“I am looking forward to getting more track time in Formula 1 machinery in this role and to build on what I have already learned with the team in 2024.
“I’m very excited to begin the role as soon as possible but for now my focus is on my third season in Formula 2 kicking off this weekend in Australia.”
Alpine’s Academy Director Julian Rouse said: “We are very happy to announce the expansion of Kush’s role in the Alpine Academy to include Test and Reserve Driver duties for the team this season.
“Kush has impressed the team across his TPC performances and Formula 2 results whilst we have been working with him and we expect he will continue to do so in 2025.
“His wider role allows us to further expand our pool of driving talent who can provide support and resource to the whole team during the busy season.”
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