Sebastien Buemi has been given an F1 lifeline after landing the role of test and reserve driver at Red Bull Racing.
He has been given the nod over his erstwhile STR team mate Jaime Alguersuari.
Team boss Christian Horner said: “It was entirely logical for Sébastien to continue with Red Bull having been a member of the Junior Team since 2004. He already knows the team well from his time with us in 2008 and has gained significant race experience over the past three years. He will complete important test and simulation work for us throughout the year and will be in attendance at each grand prix.”
Buemi added: “It’s good to remain with Red Bull for another year and have this opportunity with the World Championship winning team. I would prefer to be driving at the races of course, but working with Red Bull Racing on the development of their car and providing them with feedback throughout the
season is the next best thing.”
Meanwhile Buemi is in the unusual position of also being reserve driver for the team that has dropped him, as he will also have that role for sister team Toro Rosso.
The Italian team confirmed on its website today: “If for any reason, Scuderia Toro Rosso found itself short of a driver at a grand prix, then Sébastien would step into the cockpit for us.”
Adam Cooper F1 
The best outcome in a bad situation for Buemi. At least he gets to stay current and within the Red Bull family. Can’t see him replacing Webber (should Webber not be retained). If they thought he was the man of the future they’d not have dropped him in the first place. Still, I bet he’ll be throwing banana peels in the direction of any driver in a Red Bull/Toro Rosso seat!
2012 will be Webber’s final year at Red Bull, I doubt Buemi will be considered for his seat but he just might be if he can be consistent in this new role.