Esteban Gutierrez has been named as Romain Grosjean’s team-mate at the new Haas F1 operation for the 2016 season.

The Mexican driver joins the squad having spent this year as a Ferrari reserve driver after losing his race seat at Sauber at the end of 2014.

Gutierrez had long been tipped to secure the seat at Haas F1 due to his links with Ferrari, which will supply engines to new American squad next year.

During his two years at Sauber, Gutierrez scored just one points finish with a seventh place at the 2013 Japanese Grand Prix.

“This is an excellent opportunity that builds on my time with Ferrari and I will make the most of it,” Gutierrez said.

“Gene Haas believes in me and I believe in how he’s going about competing in Formula One.

“To have a race seat in a competitive car with Ferrari power is very special, and I appreciate the faith he has in me. I trust we’ll be able to achieve great things together.”

Team owner Gene Haas believes Gutierrez was the logical choice to partner Grosjean at the squad for 2016.

“I got to know Esteban through our relationship with Ferrari, and after looking at the success he’s had to earn his role there, it became clear he was an excellent choice for our race team,” Haas said.

“He’s young and hungry, but not inexperienced. His two years running a full F1 schedule has given him some very good race experience, and having spent this season at Ferrari as their third driver allowed him to see firsthand the methodology that makes Ferrari such a power in Formula One.

“We’re very happy to have Esteban as a part of our race team.

“Between him and Romain, we have a strong driver lineup that will help us develop our car and, ultimately, score some points in our inaugural season.”

Gutierrez will make his debut with the team at the Barcelona pre-season test from February 22-25.