Deletraz to drive Haas F1 simulator

Rich Energy Haas F1 team have announced that FIA Formula 2 Carlin Racing driver Louis Deletraz will join the US-based team as a simulator driver for the 2019 season.

The F2 driver is currently in Baku, Azerbaijan ahead of the second round of the FIA Formula 2 Championship this weekend. The Swiss ace sits fourth in the F2 standings after the opening round in Bahrain, where he finished in 5th place, in the both the Feature and the Sprint race.

The 22-year-old first impressed the Haas F1 team following the conclusion of last season’s F2 season in Abu Dhabi, when he completed an official tyre test in the VF-18 chassis.

On his extended relationship with Haas F1, Deletraz commented: "My first F1 test with Haas in November was a dream come true and I have enjoyed a good relationship with the team ever since.

"I’m pleased that they’ve been happy with my work and I feel honoured and grateful that the team want to continue working with me by contributing to their simulator programme.

"The sim plays a substantial role in the development of an F1 car because it allows the team to check the car and any updates. Driving it is an important job and, as someone that is determined to join the F1 grid in the near future, this work will allow me to continue learning about F1 and pushing towards my ultimate target."