Alex Rossi and Ma Qing Hua named as Caterham reserves

Alexander Rossi and Ma Qing Hua have been confirmed as reserve drivers for Caterham.

The American, who already had a relationship with the team and drove in FP1 in Barcelona last year, will again be in action in “a number” of Friday sessions. The Chinese driver was with HRT in 2012, taking part in four FP1 sessions, and will be in action again at his home race in Shanghai. He will also race for the Caterham GP2 team.

“As reserve drivers both Alexander and Ma will attend every race with us and will be driving in a number of FP1 sessions to continue their development,” said team boss Cyril Abiteboul. “One of the main challenges facing young drivers moving up to F1 is the sheer number of people they have to interact with compared to any other level of their motorsport career.

“They go from a small number in Formula Renault 3.5 to more than 15 in F1, across engineering, performance, reliability, engine, KERS, strategy, communications and marketing. The programme we have devised for Alexander and Ma will allow them to immerse themselves completely in the F1 environment throughout 2013, preparing them for the day when they take the next step up to the ultimate level.”

“After many discussions this winter with Caterham F1 Team regarding my 2013 programme, today’s announcement brings me even closer to my goal of racing in F1,” said Rossi.

“2013 will be my third season with the Caterham family and I’ve built solid relationships within the whole team. My goals from the Friday practice sessions that I will drive this season is to  fulfill the team’s runplan for each session, work closely with everyone and learn as much as possible, always being ready for the next opportunity.

“I will attend all F1 events, allowing me to integrate fully within in the team technically, commercially and from a sporting perspective in F1, best preparing me for the next step.”

Ma Qing Hua said: “I know the fans at home will be really excited to see me race in GP2 and with the F1 work I also have ahead of me, China can be proud that it continues to have a driver involved in motor racing at the very highest level.”