Ferrari happy for Bianchi

It was announced today that Jules Bianchi has landed a Formula 1 drive. The young Frenchman, a product of the Ferrari Driver Academy has signed with the Marussia F1 team to race in 2013 at the wheel of the MR02. After a year as reserve driver for Sahara Force India, Jules will take to the track right from tomorrow, the third day of testing at the Catalunya circuit, to get to grips with the new car and continue working on his new team’s development programme.

“I am very happy to have been given this opportunity,” commented the Frenchman. “My aim for 2013 was to race in Formula 1 and finally, I have managed it. I want to thank Marussia for having given me this chance and the Ferrari Driver Academy for the support it has given me and will continue to give me, as I progress as a driver.”

Jules is the first FDA driver to come through the Academy and reach its stated aim, as explained by the head of the programme, Luca Baldisserri. “We are pleased that Jules now has the chance to demonstrate his undoubted talent in the highest level of motor sport. To progress, it’s not enough just to do the kilometres in testing or during Friday free practice at the Grands Prix, one needs to go up against strong opposition in races. We believe in his qualities and we are convinced that he will be able to show his worth, even in a championship as competitive as this one. For our part, we will continue to provide him all our support, compatible with the needs of his new team.”