Recently ousted Toro Rosso driver, Jean-Eric Vergne, has agreed to join Ferrari as their test driver for the 2015 season, the Italian team confirmed on Friday.
The Frenchman will effectively replace Pedro de la Rosa who will leave the outfit after he joined from HRT in 2013. The Spaniard helped to develop Ferrari’s cars in the simulator, a position which Vergne will now hold.
“On behalf of the entire team, I welcome Jean-Eric, who I’m sure will make an important contribution to our development work in the simulator,” commented new team principal Maurizio Arrivabene.
“He will fit in to a programme aimed at improving important areas, invigorating and strengthening an already strong and capable group of professionals.”
Vergne described the news “a dream” despite only taking on the position of test driver.
“I feel very honored to be joining the Ferrari family and becoming a part of the most prestigious team in the history of Formula 1,” he said.
“The objective is a unanimous one and that is to help the Scuderia get back to the top step of the podium. Having had two years working in the simulator for a top F1 team and three years racing with Toro Rosso, my experience will add to the great efforts that are currently being made in order to get the team back to its winning ways.
“I look forward to fulfilling my dream in becoming a member of the Ferrari F1 team and having the Tifosi behind me every step of the way.”
He joined Esteban Gutierrez who was recently confirmed as reserve and test driver, whilst Marc Genè and Davide Rigon continue in their test roles.
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