Paul Di Resta has been confirmed as Force India’s reserve driver for the 2010 season.
The Scot impressed throughout the young driver test days last December and has now been given the opportunity to drive in a number of the Friday practice sessions this year.
“I am ecstatic to finally get the chance to move into F1 at last,” said Di Resta told Planet F1.
“I’m pleased I can start my F1 career with Force India, a team that has a lot of potential.
“I see this move as taking me one step closer to achieving my dream of racing in F1, but I know I have a lot to learn in terms of the car and the tracks right now.
“I think this programme is a perfect way to prepare fully and be ready to go if and when the chance of a race seat comes.
“I hope this will be the start of a long-term future with Force India.”
Di Resta is highly rated by team principal Vijay Mallya, who believes that the 23-year-old has every chance of stepping up intoa full time drive in the series.
“We are very proud to have someone of Paul’s calibre joining the team as his potential was clear in the test and he has the right attitude for making it in F1,” he said.
“The programme we have put together will allow him to get to grips with the car, the team and the environment and various pressures associated with F1.
“We look forward to this becoming a very fruitful partnership.”
Di Resta will also combine his duties with Force India by continuing to race in the DTM in 2010.
