F1 RESERVE DRIVERS: EVERY BACK-UP RACER FOR 2023
While the main Formula One race team drivers are well-known, the test and reserve drivers play a crucial role in the background. But, who exactly are they? Here’s our team-by-team breakdown.
Additional drivers in Formula One teams do not all have the same job titles. The words ‘third driver’ and’reserve driver’ are both commonly used, while some teams combine both roles.
The third driver is more accurately defined as the test driver. Teams enlist their assistance to help the normal drivers and engineers enhance the vehicle. Every now and then, a third driver may take over a test day or Friday practice to get a better feel for the vehicle. Demos and other public relations stunts are frequently assigned to the third driver as well.
A reserve driver, on the other hand, is on standby during grand prix weekends to take over if one of the regular drivers is unable to drive for whatever reason. As a result, they are there at almost every Grand Prix, watching the action from the pitbox. Outside of race weekends, the reserve driver is regularly working in the simulator.
- Reserve drivers: Liam Lawson, Dennis Hauger, Zane Maloney
- Third driver: Daniel Ricciardo
- Simulator driver: Rudy van Buren
Red Bull has not skimped on behind-the-scenes helpers for Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Young talents Liam Lawson, Zane Maloney and Dennis Hauger are all on the payroll as official reserve drivers for both the primary team and AlphaTauri. The trio will alternate during grand prix weekends, giving them a valuable glimpse into how things operate, with an eye to the future.
In November, Red Bull announced Daniel Ricciardo’s return to the team as a third driver. The Australian wanted a break from the limelight after his troubled spell at McLaren and was able to join his old employer. The good-humoured driver will be responsible for numerous PR activities, but will also step into the simulator to support the regular drivers.
Finally, Rudy van Buren is the Red Bull F1 simulator test and development driver. The Dutchman plays an important role behind the scenes and spends many hours in the team’s simulator. With testing opportunities in F1 limited, Van Buren’s role is very valuable. He is mainly involved in developing the car and ‘track support’: trying out set-ups and potential updates for the regular drivers during GP weekends and making suggestions accordingly.
Rudy van Buren, Red Bull F1 Simulator Test and Development Driver
Foto: Red Bull Racing
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