Thursday, 24 July 2014

Rossi joins Marussia

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(Marussia F1 Team via Twitter)

The Marussia F1 Team have confirmed today that they have signed former Caterham F1 Team test and reserve driver Alexander Rossi as their new test and reserve driver and will start work with the Banbury based outfit at this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix.

The 22 year old announced recently that he had left the Caterham F1 Team following the arrival of new owners to the Leafield based team just prior to the start of the British Grand Prix weekend in Silverstone. Speaking about the new arrival at the team Marussia's team boss John Booth said:

'We are very pleased to welcome Alexander to the Marussia F1 Team in the role of Official Reserve Driver. He is a proven talent whom we have observed in GP2 and we have also been impressed by his performances during Friday morning free practice sessions over the past two seasons. The US is an exciting market for the sport and Alexander has a great deal of support there, so it is nice to develop new links to that audience. Alexander will be an integral part of the Team, immersing himself in our engineering activity so that he is fully prepared should he ever be required to deputise for one of the race drivers.'

Alexander is excited about the move to the Banbury based outfit saying:

'Today is a good day and next step in my Formula 1 career. Since my initial discussions with the Marussia F1 Team management, I’ve felt right at home. I’m looking forward to working with the Team in Hungary and building for the rest of the season. The timing of my affiliation with the Team is perfect, especially beginning in Hungary before the summer break. My goal is Formula 1, and I’m delighted to be immersed into the Team as Official Reserve Driver, where I have the opportunity to prepare for this next step, with plans to drive in Free Practice 1 this season.

“Marussia is in an exciting place right now and the progress at the team is clear for all to see. I’m thrilled that now I have the chance to be part of that journey, to progress and play a useful role in the development of the Team. I want to thank Marussia F1 Team for the opportunity this season.'

The Marussia F1 Team head to the Hungaroring in ninth place in the constructors championship with Jules Bianchi having scored the teams very first world championship points at the Monaco Grand Prix earlier this season.

© Ben Johnston 2014

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