They may not be competing in the F1 season next year after announcing their withdrawal earlier this year, but the BMW Sauber team are staying true to their word and will give two Formula BMW drivers – Alexander Rossi and Esteban Gutierrez their first taste of an F1 car at next week’s test for young drivers in Jerez, Spain.
BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen said:
“Depriving these junior drivers of the test we had promised them was not an option for us, even after the withdrawal of BMW from Formula One.
“BMW remains committed to motor sport and is keen to continue making a contribution to well-structured talent development.”
The 18 year old American Alexander Rossi has previously won the Formula BMW World Final, and will compete in the GP2 Asia series next season. Rossi said:
“I take the opportunity to present myself as a driver at Formula One level very seriously and I’m very aware of the far-reaching potential it has. I feel very fortunate and my goals for the test are to put in a fantastic performance while fully absorbing the whole experience. There is a growing list of people that have helped me get where I am today. This is a team effort and I am very grateful for this support. A special thanks to BMW Motorsport Director Dr. Mario Theissen for making this test possible and having the confidence in me.”
The other driver that BMW will give a test to is again an 18 year old, Mexican Esteban Gutierrez. Gutierrez won the Formula BMW Europe in 2008. He said:
“We have put all our efforts into the preparations for this great opportunity that will provide me with an insight into what the future may bring. The opportunity to drive a Formula One car is the fulfilment of part of my dreams. I feel very pleased and will use this experience to learn about and experience the professionalism of a Formula One team. This will help me to find the aspects where I need to work on myself more. This test is the achievement of many people who have given me support. It is also an honour for me to represent my home country Mexico. I will deliver my best.”
