Following Sebastien Buemi’s dismissal by Toro Rosso at the end of the 2011 season, the Swiss driver has been taken on by their sister club Red Bull as the test and reserve driver, which he also served as in the 2008 season for the same team.

Buemi finished the championship in 15th position, and has since been replaced along with his former team mate Alguersuari, by the young duo of Jean-Eric Vergne and Daniel Ricciardo.

He has now found employment at Toro Rosso’s more prestigious sister club, albeit as the reserve as opposed to one of the main drivers. He will work closely with Vettel, Webber and the Red Bull team to test new parts and configurations for the car, and should either of the top drivers be unable to compete, Buemi would step up to replace him.

The 23-year old has expressed his enthusiasm for the post he will occupy this season, though he will undoubtedly be disappointed that he won’t be racing regularly. “It’s good to remain with Red Bull for another year and have this opportunity with the World Championship winning team,” Buemi said.

“I would prefer to be driving at the races of course, but working with Red Bull Racing on the development of their car and providing them with feedback throughout the season is the next best thing.”

Team Principal Christian Horner is delighted to have secured the services of a driver with recent experience, and will welcome back Buemi, who held the same position for the team in 2008.

“He already knows the team well from his time with us in 2008 and has gained significant race experience over the past three years,” said Horner. “He will complete important test and simulation work for us throughout the year and will be in attendance at each grand prix.”