New Zealand’s Brendon Hartley has today confirmed a lifelong ambition of becoming a full time Formula 1 Grand Prix driver, having been signed by Red Bull to race for Scuderia Toro Rosso in 2018.
Having learned about Porsche’s decision to end their participation in the FIA World Endurance Championship at the end of this season, Hartley reached out to former mentor Dr. Helmut Marko advising of his availability should any opportunities arise. It wasn’t long before Brendon got the call, and following three of a four grand prix programme at the end of this year, the Kiwi has impressed many around him leading to his confirmation for the 2018 season.
Having clearly matured since his last spell as a Red Bull and Toro Rosso reserve driver, the now two time FIA World Endurance Drivers Champion and 24 Hours of Le Mans race winner, has already been earning his place into Q2 in qualifying, and was one of the top ten fastest drivers on his debut weekend at the Circuit of the Americas.
Joining him in 2018 will be French driver Pierre Gasly, who has raced alongside Hartley in Mexico, Brazil and again next weekend for the season finale in Abu Dhabi. The new duo will be hoping to make their mark as the team embarks on a new era with Honda power in 2018.
Brendon Hartley – #28 Scuderia Toro Rosso:
“Really amazing to be confirmed as a Formula 1 driver for next year with Toro Rosso – It’s very satisfying to have converted an opportunity that came as a surprise into a 2018 F1 drive, I couldn’t be happier! I’d like to thank Red Bull and Toro Rosso for believing in me and giving me this second chance – dreams can come true. I’m now going to carry on working harder than ever in order to finish this busy end of season on a high and start the new year as strong as possible… Bring it!”
Franz Tost – Team Principal, Scuderia Toro Rosso:
“We’re really happy to have Pierre and Brendon confirmed so early by Red Bull as our drivers for 2018. During this last part of the year they’ve shown that they’re ready for Formula 1, getting to grips with the car quickly, showing good performances and always demonstrating to be prepared for the challenge. We have been truly impressed by both their steep learning curves. As we know, F1 is something that not all drivers can adapt to this fast! Therefore, we’re looking forward to having a full year with them; one where we can hopefully provide them with a good package which, combined with driver consistency, can surely put them in the best possible situation to deliver. I’m sure they will keep pushing hard and fight for strong results, together with the team.”
