Pedro de la Rosa will make a return to Formula One field next year, competing with HRT.
The Spaniard has signed a two-year deal with the team, which is yet to register a world championship point.
De la Rosa, 40, will move on from his reserve driver for McLaren and is set to partner Vitantonio Liuzzi, who told Speedcafe.com recently that he has a multi-year contract with HRT F1.
“This is a very important step in my sporting career and one of the most meditated ones I’ve taken,” said de la Rosa in a press statement.
“I’m at a very good stage in terms of maturity and am prepared to take on this challenge, which motivates me hugely.
“When deciding on joining this project, for me there were three decisive factors: my desire to return to active competition, the fact that HRT is a Spanish team and getting to know the people leading this project, Luis Perez-Sala being amongst them.”
Team principal Colin Kolles said that having another experienced campaigner join his team is a huge coup for the perennial backmarkers.
“The team’s objective has always been to reinforce itself in every aspect: economically, technically and in a sporting aspect,” said Kolles.
“Without a doubt, the addition of Pedro de la Rosa for next year will be a fundamental foundation in the development of our project.
“We are a young team that needs to continue progressing and with this incorporation I am convinced that we will do just that.
“Apart from being a great person he is an experienced driver as his career and prestige in Formula 1 prove. I give him my most sincere welcome. I am sure that he will adapt perfectly and that together we will achieve great things.”
