Daniil Kvyat's new job in formula one will see him work mainly in the Ferrari driver simulator. The famous Italian team has announced that the Russian and Red Bull refugee has been signed up as a development driver.
Asked what Kvyat will be doing in 2018, a Ferrari spokesman told Tass news agency: "The role of development driver is normally associated with work in the simulator. Main track activities are covered by our other drivers," he added.
Nonetheless, the Kvyat news caught many by surprise, including the pundit for Finnish broadcaster C More, Toni Vilander. "It will take valuable experience to Ferrari, as he was still a driver last season," he said.
"Perhaps his management thought this was the right solution, even if the simulator does not improve a driver's skills. He should not remain a test driver for long, as every driver's goal is to race," Vilander added.
He wonders if Kvyat might use the role as a launching pad to a Ferrari-linked team like Sauber or Haas. "In truth, it will be difficult for Daniil, but maybe he can get the support of some sponsors as well," said Vilander. (GMM)
I find him to be above average, he was just facing really stiff competition in Ricciardo. The demotion, and lack of faith from Red Bull, threw him off, which I would imagine it would with most divers.
I'd like to see what he can do in a more healthy environment, as you call it.
Ferrari seems to prepare options for the fact that 2018 is the last season for Kimi. I think that number one young driver candidate is Lerlerc. But I still see it fairly likely that one of established drivers will take the 2019 Ferrari seat.
I wish Lerlerc can master F1 quickly and gains the ferrari seat. But I still think it is unlikely to happen.
That seems like a good idea, then he can always hit rewind when he blindsides somebody!
I kid, I kid.
I think this is Ferrari hedging their bets for 2019, and who knows maybe even 2018 if Kimi underperforms greatly. Although I don't really expect them to make the switch mid-season.
But if Leclerc is not ready by 2019, I could see them giving him a shot.
I wouldnt say Kvyat was a bad driver, but he was very inconsistent. Im not sure if the Red Bull environment is healthy for drivers like that, would be interesting to see what he could do in a different team.
I find him to be above average, he was just facing really stiff competition in Ricciardo. The demotion, and lack of faith from Red Bull, threw him off, which I would imagine it would with most divers.
I'd like to see what he can do in a more healthy environment, as you call it.
That isnt necessarily a bad thing though. Red Bull has let go of both Vergne and Kvyat now, two average to above average drivers. Will they have a proper drive at Ferrari? Likely not, but I think this will benefit both parties.
Wasn't it Vettel who branded Kvyat ' The Torpedo' for the first time? I don t think he would like to see Kvyat in the other Ferrari. Also, I don t think Ferrari hired him as a possible replacement for Kimi - better drivers will be available for 2019. They could go with the other Fin if he loses his seat to Ricciardo.
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I find him to be above average, he was just facing really stiff competition in Ricciardo. The demotion, and lack of faith from Red Bull, threw him off, which I would imagine it would with most divers.
I'd like to see what he can do in a more healthy environment, as you call it.