BRENDON HARTLEY JOINS TORO ROSSO FOR US GRAND PRIX

Brendon Hartley joins Toro Rosso – Photo: LAT

Brendon Hartley, a former Red Bull development driver, will make his Formula 1 debut when he joins Toro Rosso for the US Grand Prix at Austin, Texas, the team has confirmed.

The Porsche WEC factory driver was given the green light to race for Red Bull Junior team, taking the place of Pierre Gasly for the weekend.

“What an amazing feeling! This opportunity came as somewhat of a surprise, but I never did give up on my ambition and childhood dream to reach F1.” said Hartley

“I have grown and learnt so much since the days when I was the Red Bull and Toro Rosso reserve driver, and the tough years I went through made me stronger and even more determined.

“I want to say a huge thanks to Red Bull for making this a reality, and to Porsche for allowing me to do this alongside the World Endurance Championship. COTA is a track I really enjoy and one I have raced at recently. I’m trying not to put too many expectations on my F1 debut, but I feel ready for it.”

Brendon Hartley test driving for Toro Rosso in 2009 – Photo: LAT

Toro Rosso team boss Franz Tost said that Hartley’s recent driving experiences, and success, has prompted him to become top choice to step in for Gasly.

“Brendon is coming as the reigning 24h Le Mans winner and he’s also leading the current FIA LMP1 World Endurance Championship, which he won in 2015 as well.”

“We are really happy to have him back in our team. With all the racing experience accumulated over the years, we are convinced that he will do a fantastic job for us.”

Hartley, will become the just ninth New Zealander to race in F1, and the first since Mike Thackwell in 1984.

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