Jean-Eric Vergne has joined Ferrari to work on car development in the team’s simulator.
He replaces Pedro de la Rosa, who is leaving the team at the end of the month. Ferrari has already confirmed that Esteban Gutierrez will be third driver, while Marc Gene and Davide Rigon both stay on as test drivers.
“On behalf of the entire team, I welcome Jean-Eric, who I’m sure will make an important contribution to our development work in the simulator,” said team principal Maurizio Arrivabene. “He will fit in to a programme aimed at improving important areas, invigorating and strengthening an already strong and capable group of professionals.”
“The objective is a unanimous one and that is to help the Scuderia get back to the top step of the podium,” said Vergne. “Having had two years working in the simulator for a top F1 team and three years racing with Toro Rosso, my experience will add to the great efforts that are currently being made in order to get the team back to its winning ways. I look forward to fulfilling my dream in becoming a member of Scuderia Ferrari and having the tifosi behind me every step of the way.”
Adam Cooper F1 
PDLR to McLaren?
One would hope NOT. He’s 43 y.o.
Surely even someone only driving a sim must have a use-by date?
Good that they’ve got someone who’s been racing recently.
Hi Adam slightly off topic I just watched Mclaren tooned why is Lauda not there? I think they are whery funny but why is Lauda not there? He did so well beating Prost by ½ polint. He him self a Mclaren betrayer. Or is Ron pissed? From someting? I love Rush being a Hunt fan I must say Lauda is so much the man. I can not belive the way it was then compared to now. Sorry for my spelling. I like your site. F1 for ever. 28 years and counting