Williams sign Wurz as test driver

WilliamsF1 today confirmed the appointment of Alex Wurz as the team’s official test and reserve driver for the forthcoming Formula One season. Alex will support Mark Webber & Nico Rosberg in their testing duties and, as official reserve driver, will deputise should either race driver not be able to fulfil racing duties for any reason.

However, Wurz’s most significant contribution will be as the team’s Friday driver, assisting with the vital preparation and set-up of the FW28 prior to each Grand Prix.

Alex brings three full seasons of racing experience with Benetton and five years of senior testing credentials with McLaren to the team, significantly augmenting the depth and breadth of talent and skill in Williams’ 2006 driver line-up.

At the conclusion of contractual negotiations today, Frank Williams said, “I am delighted with the agreement we have reached with Alex. Everyone at Williams believes he will bring significant improvements to the team’s performance, on Grand Prix Fridays in particular, and to our testing programme in general.”

For his part, Wurz commented, “Ever since I met Frank Williams during an International Touring Car meeting in 1996, I have wanted to drive for his team and I am delighted that the opportunity has now arisen. I feel full of energy to be part of Williams’ 2006 season attack and look forward to working closely with Mark and Nico, they are quick drivers and I believe that together we will achieve great results. The testing and Friday driver role is a responsibility I am familiar with and I.