Pedro de la Rosa will be heading back to the main event in 2010 after years as a test-driver for McLaren and his last full-time drive in 2002 with Jaguar.
Talking with the official Formula 1 website he revealed how happy he is to be given the opportunity of a full race season after pushing for it for years.
“The reason I became a test driver was because I always wanted to go back racing. My motivation for testing was to keep on believing in myself and believing that this could happen. So I am extremely happy.” said de la Rosa.
“I have learned a lot from working with a super team like McLaren Mercedes, and if I am here, it is thanks to them. They have helped me grow as a racing driver and I am a lot better now than when I joined the team back in 2003.” he added.
Asked if he has still got what it takes to cut it as an F1 driver the Spaniard was quick to remark: “I would not be here if I did not think I still had what it takes.”
Initially de la Rosa had been contacted by Peter Sauber about a 2010 drive before the team had secured their place, but he revealed that Sauber said he would confirm the grid slot then get in contact with him about a drive.
“Peter always kept his word. He called me every time he had to and kept me informed about the team's process during the winter months. He was always very straightforward. There were a lot of other good and experienced drivers out there and that I think made Peter's decision quite difficult.”
He will be joined by the surprise of the 2009 season; Kamui Kobayashi on the grid for 2010 in a year that is looking to be a promising one of the Hinwil based team.
