Haas recruits F2 racer Deletraz for Abu Dhabi test

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The Haas F1 Team will entrust its car to young F2 racer Louis Deletraz at the Abu Dhabi post-season Pirelli test scheduled at Yas Marina at the end of the month.

Deletraz - the son of former F1 driver Jean-Denis Deletraz who ran in three grands prix races in 1994 and 1995 - will take to the track onboard an F1 car for the very first time on the second day of the three-day tyre test.

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"I’m naturally very excited to make my Formula One debut testing in Abu Dhabi," said the Swiss driver.

"I’m grateful to both Gene Haas and Guenther Steiner for giving me the opportunity to test with Haas F1 Team.

"It’s the perfect way to end my 2018 season, one in which I’ve continued to develop and showcase my credentials."

The 21-year-old hopeful, a former member of Renault's young driver programme, is currently 11th in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, having scored two podium finishes this season with Charouz Racing System, a team linked to Ferrari's driver academy.

"This is a good opportunity for Louis Delétraz to progress his racing career and it’s always a special occasion earning your debut in a Formula 1 car," said Haas boss Gunther Steiner.

"He has enjoyed a solid 2018 season competing in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, amidst possibly one of the strongest fields in recent years."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.