Ferrari Driver Academy racing driver Callum Ilott has signed with Alfa Romeo on the dotted line to become the team’s second reserve driver. From this Friday in Portugal he can take part in FP1 sessions this season.
The Briton, who is taking on the role of test driver for Ferrari’s F1 factory team this year, has experience with Alfa Romeo, which was first tested with the team in 2019 and last year at the end of the season in Abu Dhabi.
The 22-year-old will share reserve duties with Robert Kubica, who will not be available at some Grand Prix this year due to his racing and testing commitments in other motorsport categories. The Pole took his first LMP2 win at the Le Mans Series opener earlier this month.
Ilott was runner-up in F2 last year and lost to Haas driver Mick Schumacher from 2021 after finishing the fight with three wins and five podiums up to the last race in Bahrain – and will consistently have an undefined number of FP1 sessions contest the season.
“I am very excited to join the team this season and I would like to thank Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN and the Ferrari Driver Academy for the trust they have shown me,” said Ilott.
“The two sessions I’ve had with the team over the past two years have been extremely useful in getting used to the way a Formula 1 team works, and I’m confident that I will be in my new role as one of the reserve drivers can reach the ground underfoot at Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN. I can’t wait to sit in the car and help the team continue their progress. “
Alfa Romeo Team Principal Frederic Vasseur added: “I am delighted to welcome Callum to our team: his journey through the junior series has been impressive and he is without a doubt one of the most talented young drivers to come through the ranks.
“He’s worked with us before and, thanks to his work ethic and good feedback, made a lasting impression every time. I don’t doubt that he will be a very positive addition to Robert Kubica who will not be available on various occasions due to his other racing programs.
“Callum will have a full program and we can’t wait to see him on the right track again this weekend.”
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