Mercedes F1 make ex McLaren racer Stoffel Vandoorne their new reserve driver

Mercedes

Mercedes make Stoffel Vandoorne their new reserve driver

Matthew Bannister

Monday 17 February 2020 12:58

Mercedes have promoted their Formula E driver Stoffel Vandoorne as their new reserve driver for the 2020 F1 season.

The Belgian driver will combine his focus in Formula E and his newly appointed role after stepping up from being Mercedes simulator driver.

The former McLaren driver has previous experience in F1, with two full seasons under his belt finishing 16th in both 2017 and 2018 with Fernando Alonso.

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Whilst he has not won a race for Mercedes in Formula E so far this season, he has gained three podiums out of four races.

He will continue racing for Mercedes in Formula E

He did struggle in the qualifier for the Mexico E-Prix before having to then retire later on in the race.

FORMULA E: Mexico E Prix: Mitch Evans claims victory as Mercedes crash outNot a good race for Stoffel VandoorneRead more

He currently sits fourth in the Championship table only nine points off Mitch Evans. His contribution alongside with teammate Nyck De Vries have put the ‘Silver Arrows’ third in the Championship table.

Whether having two roles to cope with for this season will affect the rest of his performances in Formula E will yet to be seen.

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