Williams F1 Team has announced Paul di Resta will remain as the team’s reserve driver for the 2017 season.
Di Resta joined the team in 2016, replacing Adrian Sutil in the role, and will deputise for either Felipe Massa or Lance Stroll should either driver be unable to partake in a race weekend.
The Scot spent three seasons in Formula 1, driving for Force India. He was dropped for the 2014 season and hasn’t found a full-time seat since.
Speaking about the announcement, di Resta said: “I am delighted to remain at Williams as Reserve Driver for the 2017 season. I’m looking forward to getting to grips with the controls and procedures of the FW40 and understanding the new regulations.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Claire and everyone at Williams for their continued support in being part of the team.”
Deputy team principal Claire Williams added that it was important the team had an experienced driver in reserve.
“It’s great for us to retain someone with Paul’s experience in the team. His extensive Formula One knowledge will once again be invaluable, especially with new regulations in place for the 2017 season.
“Paul has been a great asset to the team over the past year and it is great that we will be able to continue working with him again in 2017.”
