Jules Bianchi signed by Force India as reserve and test driver for 2012 – Formula 1 news
Jules Bianchi has been signed by Force India as their reserve and test driver for the 2012 season.
Bianchi a product of the Ferrari Academy was holding the position as a third driver for Ferrari has decided to join Force India for the upcoming season. The French man has impressed as an up and coming potential talent in Formula 1.
Many can view this move as a step backwards joining Force India and leaving the mighty Ferrari but in hindsight, it may turn out to be a genius move. Ferrari are looking to replace Felipe Massa at the end of the 2012 season unless he shows a significant
improvement over his 2011 performance. If Massa goes, Ferrari are going to be looking for a replacement and with track experience under his belt Bianchi will prove to be a alluring option.
Bianchi expressed his delight at joining the Force India team and said that the regular appearances will enhance his development as a driver.
“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,” Bianchi said.
“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. 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 owner Vijay Mallya also showed his confidence at the inclusion of a young talent and mentioned that the team is looking forward to a valuable contribution from Bianchi. He also said that Bianchi will be getting some track time during the pre-season
testing scheduled for February 7, 2012.
He said that the team has demonstrated great commitment towards giving young talented drivers opportunities in the sport and are going to continue in this direction in the future as well.
Force India are starting to look better and better with the little changes they have made from 2011, and are speculated to give a strong showing in 2012.
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