Dutch Formula One driver Giedo van der Garde was announced as Sauber’s test and reserve driver yesterday after losing his race seat at Caterham.

Sauber said in a statement that the 28-year-old would take part in some Friday practice sessions at race weekends as well as tests.

Sauber principal Monisha Kaltenborn said Van der Garde, who has substantial financial backing, offered good experience for the Swiss-based team after a season with Caterham and four years in the junior GP2 category.

“I want to show the team and everybody else what I am capable of and that I deserve a race seat with the Sauber F1 team in 2015,” said van der Garde, who scored no points last year.

“My ambition remains unchanged and I am highly motivated to succeed in Formula One, especially in the long term.”

Sauber’s race drivers are Germany’s Adrian Sutil and Mexican Esteban Gutierrez.

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