With Pedro de la Rosa racing this year with the Sauber Ferrari team, McLaren Mercedes today confirmed that fellow tester Gary Paffett will be the team’s reserve driver for the opening four races of the season.

“Gary has been on the team since 2006 and we value his dedication and technical feedback,” said team principal Martin Whitmarsh. “We need someone who’s ready to step in if anything should happen to prevent Jenson or Lewis from taking part in a grand prix weekend. 

“We know from working with Gary, and from watching his performances in other racing categories, that he’s ready and able to take on this responsibility.”

Paffett spent Monday in the McLaren simulator helping him prepare - should he be needed – for Bahrain, Melbourne, Malaysia or China.