In the modern F1 era, a test driver’s role in the car’s development is massive. The role has almost become synonymous with that of a third driver, the one trusted to stand in for the team when one of the regular drivers is unfit to race. That, sadly, wasn’t the case too long ago and former world champion Damon Hill credits himself for changing that trend, the trend that has kept the likes of Daniel Ricciardo and Mick Schumacher in the media’s limelight lately.

Hill started out in F1 in 1991 as Williams’ test driver. The team was one of the most sought-after contenders in the championship back then. The very next year, he joined Brabham as a regular driver, but the stint did not carry on for long as the team went under owing to financial struggles. However, his big break came in 1993 when both drivers Nigel Mansell and Riccardo Patrese left Williams, and Hill was promoted to race alongside Alain Prost.

Speaking on the role of a test driver on the Fuelling Around podcast, the 1996 world champion said, “You’re a bit of a vulture, you’re sitting there on a branch hoping that someone slips on a banana skin. Obviously, you don’t wish that, but if someone gets Covid and they can’t drive, you’re in. That’s it, in you go.”

“At that time it was seen as a dead-end job. Basically, if you were a test driver you were a failed racing driver. I really was the first guy to convert, I think, and I’m sure historians will pick me up on this.”

Daniel Ricciardo Gets Emotional Over Missing Out On F1 Action in 2023: “The Sound, The Smell…”

Both Ricciardo and Mick are waiting for the opportunity to make a comeback soon as regular drivers. While they do that, Brazilian legend Felipe Massa has a word of advice for them.

Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull only to participate in promotional events?

As Daniel made a switch to Red Bull as a development driver, the move caused a buzz around Sergio Perez’s place in the team. The team’s consultant Helmut Marko issued a clarification, assuring Checo of his place. He also revealed what the Honey Badger’s role for Red Bull will be limited to.

Speaking with ServusTV last month, Marko said, “We have to remember that we are a great team.”

Trending

Adrian Newey Hits Out at Climate Activist Lewis Hamilton’s Fuel Protest, Desperate to See V10 Engines Again

April 15, 2024 12:35 PM EDT

Lando Norris Spotted With Portuguese Supermodel in $700K+ Supercar

April 13, 2024 03:51 PM EDT

F1 Rumor: Carlos Sainz Offered 2-Year Deal for Mercedes by Toto Wolff

April 12, 2024 12:16 PM EDT

Fred Vasseur Fires Warning to Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Ahead of Unpredictable Chinese GP

April 17, 2024 01:01 PM EDT

F1 Rumor: Carlos Sainz to Sign with Red Bull, Replacing Sergio Perez

April 16, 2024 12:22 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest F1 stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

“We also have the largest number of sponsors on the grid. This means that we also have many commitments every year, such as car shows and roadshows in the United States.”

“Who can do it better than Ricciardo with his smile, his shoeys and I don’t know what else he has up his sleeve?” he added.

Watch This Story: Daniel Ricciardo’s Fandom of Buffalo Bills including his friendship with their Quarterback

Daniel and Mick plan on making a comeback in 2024. Until then, they will have to prove their worth as the competition with rookies could prove to be tough.