Louis gets F1 testing chance with Haas F1 Team

Switzerland’s Louis Delétraz will make his Formula One testing debut with Haas F1 Team at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi on 28 November.

The US-based team has recruited Louis to drive its Haas VF-18 chassis during the second day of a tyre test directly after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Louis will lap the 5.55km Yas Marina Circuit on Pirelli’s 2019 tyre compounds.

The test marks an important step in Louis’ career as he looks to graduate from being an FIA Formula 2 Championship podium finisher to a Formula 1 driver.

“I’m thrilled to be given this incredible opportunity because it’s the beginning of a dream coming true,”he said. “Formula 1 is the highest level in motorsport and it’s been my goal since I was a child. 

“I’m hugely grateful to Gene Haas, Guenther Steiner and Haas F1 Team for believing in me and giving me the chance to drive for the team during the Abu Dhabi Test.”

“My target is to learn all the new procedures and adapt quickly. That way, I hope I can be as fast as possible and give the team great feedback.”

Louis will prepare for his maiden F1 testing opportunity by joining Haas F1 Team at the Brazilian Grand Prix (9-11 November).

He’ll use his time at Interlagos and at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend to famialiarise himself with team personnel and operations.

Louis’ first F1 experience will be supported by Abu Dhabi-based ADSS Group. The financial services company has been one of the 21-year-old’s longest-standing backers during his successful motorsport career.

The company’s logo will feature on both the Haas F1 Team’s cars during the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the following test.

“I’m extremely thankful to ADSS Group and Philippe Ghanem [CEO] who has always believed in me and supported me since I started racing single-seaters in 2012,”Louis said.

“We’ve achieved many successes together and I’ve no doubt there’s more to come. Our objective has always been to get to Formula 1.”

Haas F1 Team, team principal, Guenther Steiner, welcomed the opportunity to work with Louis at close quarters.

He said: “This is a good opportunity for Louis to progress his racing career and it’s always a special occasion earning your debut in a Formula One car.

“We look forward to welcoming Louis into the team along with ADSS Group at their home Grand Prix. I’m sure he will acquit himself with the same drive and determination that has brought him success throughout his career to-date.”

RACE RESULTS