Lucas Di Grassi will be a test driver for Pirelli

Brazilian Lucas di Grassi has been confirmed as a Pirelli test driver. The 26-year-old driver will be handling the Pirelli test car, a Toyota TF109, and will contribute to the development of the latest generation of F1 tires for the future, with a minimum of five tests this year.

In addition to the tests, the Brazilian will attend certain Grand Prix events of the season with Pirelli, starting with Silverstone, in order to gather information and contribute his experience during technical debriefings.

Di Grassi has known Formula 1 since 2005, following his time as a reserve driver for Renault, and he became a full-time driver in 2010 with Virgin Racing. He also finished in the top three of the GP2 championship for three consecutive seasons between 2007 and 2009.

Paul Hembery, Director of Pirelli Motorsport, commented: « A significant part of our tire development comes from the technical feedback provided by our test drivers, making it a crucial position. Lucas impressed us not only with his speed—which is vital for accurately simulating race conditions—but also with the technical feedback he provided to the engineers. I am delighted to welcome him to the team ».

Di Grassi’s program will focus on developing the tires to be offered during the 2012 season. Pirelli has done a fantastic job so far, and in a very short time. I am eager to contribute to the development of the PZeros to make them even more efficient in the future; not only for drivers and teams but also for spectators. This is a great opportunity to spend more time behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car, which is difficult nowadays due to testing regulations. I will be able to use my experience to make a real difference in this sport, declared the main person concerned.

According to a press release from Pirelli.