Mercedes 2019 development driver confirmed

Esteban Gutierrez has confirmed that he will remain in his role as Mercedes development driver during the 2019 season. The Mexican has previously raced in Formula 1 for Sauber and Haas and emerged as a candidate to drive for Williams in 2019 before George Russell and Robert Kubica were confirmed as the British team's line-up.

Gutierrez raced for Sauber in 2013 and 2014, and spent 2015 as a test driver for Ferrari before teaming with Romain Grosjean in Haas' debut campaign in F1, although he failed to score a single point and was replaced by Kevin Magnussen.

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I’m very proud to announce my continuation with @mercedesamgf1 This year I’ll be Mercedes’ Development Driver and my goal is to help them fight for their sixth consecutive championship!#F1 #Mercedes #Champions #Driver #racing — Esteban Gutierrez (@EstebanGtz) February 13, 2019

Speaking amid links to Williams at last year's Mexican Grand Prix, Gutierrez said: "I've been working with Mercedes, a very professional team, actively on the simulator, doing different things, and I am really positive about the future.

"I think I feel like I have a lot to give in Formula 1, and I am very motivated for it."

Esteban Ocon will also fulfil simulator duties for Mercedes in 2019, as well as serving in reserve for the Silver Arrows, having lost his race seat to Lance Stroll at the newly renamed Racing Point team – formerly Force India.

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