Gutierrez extends development role with Mercedes

Former Sauber and Haas F1 driver Esteban Gutierrez will take part this season in Mercedes' development programme.

The Mexican, whose efforts to return to a race seat have not been fruitful, enjoyed a simulator role with the Silver Arrows squad last year, working at the team's headquarters in Brackley.

• Hamilton: 'First date with W10 one of the best we've had'

Since leaving the grid after a single season with Haas at the end of 2016, Gutierrez raced in Formula E with Techeetah and in IndyCar with Dale Coyne Racing, but neither endeavor led to a full-time opportunity in either series.

The 27-year-old has kept himself in the loop with Mercedes but chances of getting behind the wheel of the team's W10 this year are remote, especially as the German outfit can count on the skills of another Esteban, official reserve driver Esteban Ocon.

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