Di Resta secures Force India reserve drive
The Scotsman impressed Force India when he tested for them in Jerez at the end of last year
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Tuesday, 02, Feb 2010 12:26
By Adam Leveridge
Force India have confirmed the signing of Scottish DTM racer Paul di Resta as their new test and reserve driver.
Di Resta made an impression when he tested for the team at last year's young drivers' test in Jerez and this performance led to suggestions the Scotsman would be signed as Force India's third driver for the 2010 season.
In a statement on Tuesday, Force India confirmed Di Resta's appointment to the third driver role, which will provide him with regular opportunities to drive the VJM03 during Friday practice before each grand prix.
It is thought this is an attempt by the team to sidestep the restrictions to pre and in-season testing imposed by the FIA and to help Di Resta progress into a full-time race seat in 2011.
Force India team owner Dr Viajy Mallya thanked both di Resta and JR Hildebrand for their hard work during the young drivers' test in Jerez and welcomed the Scotsman to the team.
"We are very proud to have someone of Paul's calibre joining the team as his potential was clear in the test and he has the right attitude for making it in F1," said Mallya
"The programme we have put together will allow him to get to grips with the car, the team and the environment and various pressures associated with F1 and we look forward to this becoming a very fruitful partnership."
At the three-day test in December, Di Resta said he hoped his performance would open doors for him.
Having secured the third driver position with Force India, the Mercedes DTM star said he is delighted to finally be in F1, adding that he hopes this opportunity will eventually lead to a full-time race seat.
"I am ecstatic to finally get the chance to move into F1 at last. I'm pleased I can start my F1 career with Force India, a team that has a lot of potential," said di Resta.
"I see this move as taking me one step closer to achieving my dream of racing in F1 but I know I have a lot to learn in terms of the car and the tracks right now.
"I think this programme is a perfect way to prepare fully and be ready to go if and when the chance of a race seat comes.
"I hope this will be the start of a long-term future with Force India."