The new Haas Formula One team, formed by American Gene Haas, the founder of a machining company as well as the Stewart-Haas Racing NASCAR team, is gearing up for its competition debut next season and this week confirmed Romain Grosjean as one of its drivers.
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The Frenchman currently drives for the Lotus F1 team, which next season is set to revive its former Renault name. In a statement, Haas said Grosjean was picked because of his experience and potential. The 29-year-old has so far competed in 78 grands prix and scored 10 podium finishes.
Grosjean was also keen to jump onboard with Haas because of the team’s close links to Ferrari, another team the Frenchman hopes to one day drive for. Haas is a key sponsor of Ferrari and next season will be using a Ferrari power unit.
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Grosjean’s first time behind the wheel of a Haas F1 car will be during the preseason test in early March at Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain. His first race will be the season-opening Australian Grand Prix later that month.
Meanwhile, Grosjean’s current team has confirmed it’s other driver Pastor Maldonado will be sticking with the squad next season when it is rebranded Renault.
“What Gene Haas and everyone at Haas F1 Team is building is impressive, and I’m very proud to be a part of it,” Grosjean said in a statement. “Formula One is incredibly competitive and the only way to succeed is by finding new ways of doing things."
