12/08/2015
NEWS STORY
Former Toro Rosso driver Jean-Eric Vergne believes he could be in line for seat with Haas.
The Frenchman, who has just announced a deal to drive for DS Virgin in Formula E next season, and has a testing role with Ferrari, is one of several drivers being linked with the new American team which will use the Maranello team's technology.
"There are there of us, for two seats," he told Motorsport.com, referring to Esteban Gutierrez and Nico Hulkenberg who are also believed to be in contention. "Let's say there is a rather good chance for me to end up with Haas. Then, as far as Formula E is concerned, that's too early to talk about it.
"If F1 comes, there will be two clashes," he added. "It's way too early to say how that will go. I hope to have that kind of problem to sort out, that would be a good one to have!
"Today, I am focused on Formula E, and very much as well on my work with Ferrari, which of course pays off to land in the Haas team," he said, clearly believing that his work with Ferrari, and experience with Red Bull and its sister team will make him attractive to Haas.
"I think this is an advantage. Also, because I have worked with a very big team at Red Bull, at a time they were winning absolutely everything. I was a reserve driver and a simulator driver. I learnt a huge lot with them. Then came three years with Toro Rosso, where I proved a lot behind the steering wheel. I can't ignore my performances compared to Ricciardo: I beat him in year one. Year two, it was really tight, and today he wins Grands Prix.
"At Ferrari, I keep learning about a new philosophy, in the biggest team of all time! That's a new work philosophy and I keep on learning a lot about the car's technicalities. That plays an important role when it comes to Haas. Getting out of the F1 grid but staying in such a team as Ferrari and working all weekends on the simulator - knowing all the set-up changes, everything that goes on and following it first hand from the factory… plus I'm racing - that sure doesn't take anything away!"