Jules Bianchi joins Sahara Force India as reserve driver for 2012

Formula One team Sahara Force India today announced that 22-year-old Frenchman Jules Bianchi had joined it as its reserve driver for the 2012 season.

 

Bianchi would be integrated in the team’s programme and would participate in a minimum of nine Friday practice sessions during Grand Prix weekends. In preparation for the 2012 season, Jules will get his first run in the VJM05 during pre-season testing next month, the team said.

 

"The appointment sees Sahara Force India continue its tradition of investing in young drivers and developing their skills by giving them time in the car," a statement from the team said.

 

“I’m obviously excited to join Sahara Force India and the chance to get track time during race weekends is an important step for me. Being regularly in a current car is the best way to learn quickly and I hope it will put me in a strong position to one day move into a race seat," Bianchi said.

 

"The next few months will be really exciting as I get to know the team, see how they work, and prepare for my time in the car. I would like to thank everyone for believing in me and especially Sahara Force India for giving me this great opportunity," he said.

 

Team Principal and Managing Director Vijay Mallya said the team always kept an eye on young, talented drivers and Bianchi's performance in GP2 had impressed them. 

 

"By giving Jules the opportunity to be part of our 2012 campaign, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to young drivers. We are proud of our track record in this regard and I have no doubt that Jules will quickly settle into the team and make a valuable contribution to our efforts on track this season," he added.

 

NNN

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