F1: Jean-Eric Vergne has joined Ferrari as test driver with a focus on simulator work
Jean-Eric Vergne has joined Ferrari as test driver with a focus on developing the car in the team’s simulator.
The Frenchman had found himself without a seat in 2015 after being axed by Toro Rosso in favour of Max Verstappen and then missing out on a reprieve when Carlos Sainz replaced the promoted Daniil Kvyat.
The move will see Vergne link up once again with fellow ex-Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel, as well as Kimi Raikkonen, third driver Esteban Guiterrez and test drivers Marc Gene and Davide Rigon.
“I feel very honoured to be joining the Ferrari family and becoming a part of the most prestigious team in the history of Formula 1,” said Vergne.
“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 Scuderia Ferrari and having the Tifosi behind me every step of the way.”
Much of Ferrari’s simulator work was carried out by Pedro de la Rosa, who will leave the team at the end of December, but new team principal Maurizio Arrivabene thinks the Scuderia will benefit from a fresh approach.
“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,” the Italian said.
“He will fit in to a programme aimed at improving important areas, invigorating and strengthening
an already strong and capable group of professionals.”
