Aston Martin sign surprising ex-driver to key role

Aston Martin has announced the signing of former driver Daniel Juncadella as a simulator driver. 

The 33-year-old Spanish racer is currently competing in the World Endurance Championship for TF Sport, having previously been signed to Aston's precursor team but one, Force India. 

In 2014, he completed a handful of FP1 outings, driving at the British, Italian and Brazilian Grands Prix as well as other testing. 

He has been signed as simulator driver, taking up the role last weekend ahead of the season-finale in Abu Dhabi, where Fernando Alonso finished ninth. 

"I’m really happy to be joining Aston Martin as a Simulator Driver," said Juncadella.

"The facilities at the AMRTC are really impressive and I can see the ambition and determination of everybody involved in this project.

"I look forward to supporting the team from the campus going forward."

Team boss Mike Krack also played up the importance of a dedicated simulator driver

"We are excited to welcome Daniel to the team, the role of a Simulator Driver is an important one as his feedback from the simulator will have an impact on car development and our performances during race weekends," he said. 

"He brings a lot of skill and experience behind the wheel so we have no doubt that he will become a valuable asset for us."