PlanetF1

Gonzalez joins Marussia

Thursday 14-March-2013 06:13

Marussia have signed Venezuelan driver Rodolfo Gonzalez as their reserve driver for this year's Championship.

The team announced on the eve of the Australian Grand Prix that the 26-year-old had joined and would take part in selected Friday practice sessions as part of his deal.

"I am very excited to be joining the Marussia F1 team and at such an exciting time in their development," said Gonzalez.

"Working closely with the race drivers and engineers at every stage of the race weekend is a fantastic opportunity for me to learn outside of the car and I hope that I can make a significant contribution to the team's progress.

"I am looking forward to being part of the team, starting this weekend in Melbourne, and I would like to thank the team for their trust in me and this fantastic opportunity."

Gonzalez will also test the team's 2013 challenger during the Young Driver outing later in the season.