JANUARY 1, 2015

Marciello is new Sauber reserve

Raffaele Marciello is Sauber's new test and reserve driver for 2015.

Raffaele Marciello is Sauber's new test and reserve driver for 2015.

The 20-year-old Swiss-born Italian driver is a leading and long-time member of Ferrari's driver academy.

Ferrari is Swiss team Sauber's engine supplier.

"Apart from his formula one responsibilities," the Maranello based team announced, "the Italian youngster, born in 1994, will continue to race in the GP2 series."

In 2014, as the reigning European F3 champion, Marciello finished his first GP2 season in eighth place, winning the main race at Spa.

"We will give Raffaele the opportunity to become familiar with formula one, which also includes him taking part in some free practice sessions on Friday," said Sauber team boss Monisha Kaltenborn.

Marciello added: "I want to thank the Ferrari driver academy for giving me this important opportunity, and now I really can't wait to start delivering my best."

Sauber's reserve driver in 2014 was Dutchman Giedo van der Garde.

(GMM)