Bottas returns to cockpit as Williams signs Sutil as reserve
Having been unsure of Valtteri Bottas' return until today, Williams F1 have not been resting on their laurels and in the meantime signed Adrian Sutil as the team's official reserve driver in 2015.
Bottas however has been confirmed to return to normal duties this weekend at Sepang.
"Following the injury that Valtteri sustained to his lower back during qualifying for the Australian GP, he has been with a leading physiotherapist who has been working with Valtteri and his trainer to make sure he received the best treatment possible ahead of this weekend’s race.
"The team has always been fully supportive of Valtteri and his determination to return to the cockpit and following final approval by the FIA medical team in Malaysia today, we are pleased to confirm that Valtteri will be back in the FW37 this weekend for the Malaysian Grand Prix."
Just 6 hours after the team confirmed Bottas was found fit to race, Williams also announced Adrian Sutil as its reserve driver. The German competed with Sauber last year in F1 and will spend time in the team's race simulator "to ensure he is fully accustomed to the Williams Mercedes FW37 controls and procedures, should he be required to step into the cockpit at any time during the current season. He has also spent time integrating himself into the team to ensure he is fully prepared to join Williams Martini Racing at any event, should the need arise."
Speaking about the appointment Sir Frank Williams, Founder and Team Principal, said; “I’m delighted to have Adrian join our stable of drivers for the 2015 season. Adrian brings extensive racing experience, having competed 128 Formula One races during his career. Having most recently raced during the 2014 season also gives him excellent knowledge of the current generation of race car and new Hybrid power units, which is invaluable for anyone needing to step into the cockpit in 2015. The fight for a top Constructors’ Championship position will be intense this season, therefore we have selected a driver with recent race experience and are confident that if the need arose, he would be a solid pair of hands to race the FW37 and assist our 2015 campaign.”
Adrian Sutil said; “I’m very proud to be a part of such a famous and great F1 team. To work for Sir Frank Williams and his team means a lot to me. I would like to thank everyone at Williams for their belief in my qualities and the opportunity to work with such a successful and competitive outfit.”
