Fittipaldi to replace Grosjean at Haas at Sakhir GP

Pietro Fittipaldi will start his first Grand Prix on Sunday in Formula 1 under the colors of Haas F1 Team.

The Brazilian reservist, 24, will replace at short notice Romain Grosjean, victim of burns to his hands in the terrible accident from which he miraculously escaped at the start of the Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday evening. 

Grandson of double world champion Emerson Fittipaldi, Pietro has been with the American team since 2018. He has already tested aboard the VF-18 fielded that season, as well as at the wheel of the VF-19 engaged last year. 

Fittipaldi, on the other hand, will discover this year's VF-20 during the first free practice sessions for the Sakhir Grand Prix this Friday in Bahrain. 

« After deciding that it was wiser for Romain to miss at least one race, the choice to start Pietro was an easy one to make., commented Guenther Steiner, team principal of the Haas F1 Team. 

He knows the team well because he has been with us for 2 seasons as a test driver and then a reserve driver. He was always patient and ready to take the wheel if necessary. His services are now required and I am confident he will do a good job. The challenge is big but I think it is the best solution for the Haas team ». 

Fittipaldi admitted the circumstances were not ideal for his Formula 1 debut but he is understandably looking forward to lining up on the grid on Sunday. 

« I spent a lot of time with the team this season, both on the tracks and in the simulator, commented the young Brazilian, winner of Formula V8 3.5 in 2017. I know the operational procedures on a Grand Prix weekend ». 

Fittipaldi will be the first Brazilian driver to start a Grand Prix since Felipe Massa retired at the end of 1.