At the launch of the new 2010 Renault challenger today in Spain, the team confirmed that Ho-Pin Tung takes the role of ’third driver’ this year.
"At my recent test drive with Renault at Jerez I said that I was at the threshold of Formula One," Tung began. "Today I am delighted to say I am in. Since the day I started racing, Formula One has always been my objective. So to reach the pinnacle of motorsport and become part of such a famous team as Renault is an amazing opportunity. It’s really a dream come true for me, but it’s also the start of a new adventure. In many ways everything starts from now.
"My objective is unchanged, I want to race and I want to win, for China, for my fans, for the team, for my partners and for myself. Formula One is what I really want."
The young Dutch-Chinese driver will attend all the Grand Prix races this season and become fully integrated with the team. Besides his busy Formula One schedule Tung will race for DAMS this year in the GP2 Series which has been brought under Renault colours.
"My new position with Renault is excellent news for China, for Chinese sport and the fast growing number of Formula One fans there," he added.
Speaking at the announcement Renault team principal Eric Boullier said: “This is a great opportunity for Ho-Pin and we are pleased to welcome him into the team. When he tested for the team in December, he immediately impressed with his speed and feedback, which convinced us that he was ready to become part of the team."