Porsche LMP1 star Brendon Hartley has described his upcoming Formula 1 debut at the US Grand Prix as ‘somewhat of a surprise.’
It was confirmed last week that Hartley – who currently leads the World Endurance Championship in the #2 Porsche – will drive alongside Daniil Kvyat at Toro Rosso in Austin.
Hartley replaces Pierre Gasly for the weekend, who will instead be contesting the Japanese Super Formula finale. Gasly enters the weekend half a point behind the championship leader and could, therefore, clinch the title.
Formerly a member of the Red Bull young driver programme, Hartley was dropped from the line-up in 2011.
“What an amazing feeling,” said Hartley of his F1 chance when speaking to Radio New Zealand. “This opportunity came as somewhat of a surprise, but I never did give up on my ambition and childhood dream to reach F1.
“I have grown and learnt so much since the days when I was the Red Bull and Toro Rosso reserve driver, and the tough years I went through made me stronger and even more determined.
“The Austin track is one I really enjoy and one I have raced at recently. I’m trying not to put too many expectations on my F1 debut, but I feel ready for it.”
Since leaving the single-seater fold, Hartley has bolstered his CV by winning the WEC title in 2015. It was only his second year in the series.
In 2017, he has claimed the overall victory at the Le Mans 24 Hours and won Petit Le Mans – the blue-ribbon round of the IMSA series – held at Road Atlanta.
Toro Rosso team principal Franz Tost, stated; “We are really happy to have him [Hartley] back in our team. With all the racing experience accumulated over the years, we are convinced that he will do a fantastic job for us.”
Hartley will be the first New Zealander to compete in F1 since Mike Thackwell in 1984.
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