Sutil gets Williams reserve driver role

Adrian Sutil has been named by Williams as its reserve driver for the 2015 season.

Having been replaced at Sauber at the end of last year, Sutil was without a drive in 2015. Williams has Alex Lynn as development driver and Susie Wolff as test driver but wanted an experienced reserve to be able to call upon in case it needed to replace either of its race drivers.

"I’m delighted to have Adrian join our stable of drivers for the 2015 season," team principal Sir Frank Williams said. "Adrian brings extensive racing experience, having competed 128 Formula One races during his career. Having most recently raced during the 2014 season also gives him excellent knowledge of the current generation of race car and new Hybrid power units, which is invaluable for anyone needing to step into the cockpit in 2015.

"The fight for a top Constructors’ Championship position will be intense this season, therefore we have selected a driver with recent race experience and are confident that if the need arose, he would be a solid pair of hands to race the FW37 and assist our 2015 campaign.”

Sutil himself says he is honoured to race for the team which finished third in the constructors' championship last season.

“I’m very proud to be a part of such a famous and great F1 team," Sutil said. "To work for Sir Frank Williams and his team means a lot to me. I would like to thank everyone at Williams for their belief in my qualities and the opportunity to work with such a successful and competitive outfit.”

Valtteri Bottas has been passed fit to race in Malaysia following a back injury, but with the FIA saying "he must stop at the earliest opportunity" if the injury resurfaces, Sutil will drive if required.

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