Ralf Schumacher is not the only driver leaving Toyota this season after several years of testing with the Japanese team, Frenchman Franck Montagny s last test was today at Barcelona.
The 29 year old has raced in 13 Formula 1 Grand Prix for Jordan and Super Aguri and has been on the edge of F1 racing for the past 5 years unfortunately without a permanent race seat. In a season where Formula 1 test drivers have increasingly been pushed out of their duties thanks to weekend rule changes, Montagny has decided to seek challenges away from the sport.
“It was my last day driving for the team and it has been a good day which I am happy about,†he explained. “I hope for the team that we have moved in the right direction. I would like to thank all the team for everything throughout the year because, at times, it has been a bit frustrating with a lot of watching and not as much driving.
“But everyone in the team has been very supportive and good with me and I have enjoyed working with them, so I thank them for that.â€
“Working with Franck this year has been a very positive experience and he has given a lot to the team,†Toyota F1 president John Howett said. “His work at tests has been outstanding and he has helped us continuously improve the performance of our car.
“He is an enthusiastic character who is also very dedicated to his work. We have enjoyed having him as part of the team and we will miss him.â€
