Williams has confirmed that Rubens Barrichello will join the team for the 2010 season alongside Nico Hulkenberg who is promoted from his role as test and reserve driver. The team has already confirmed a switch from Toyota to Cosworth engines for next year.
Despite his success with Brawn this year, the impending acquisition of a stake in the team by Mercedes-Benz and the expected arrival of 2009 Williams driver Nico Rosberg, forced Barrichello to look elsewhere.
“Rubens needs no introduction,” said Frank Williams. “He is not only the most experienced driver in Formula One, but a passionate and talented driver who fought hard for the drivers’ championship this year.”
Having started his Formula One career with Jordan in 1993, his new deal will see him race for the Grove-based team, extending his F1 career to an astonishing 18 seasons and over 300 starts. He has finished second in the championship with Ferrari and third this year with Brawn GP.
Hulkenberg meanwhile is the protégé of Michael Schumacher’s manager Willi Weber and steps up to Formula One with impressive credentials having taken championship honours in Formula BMW ADAC, A1GP, F3 Euroseries and the GP2 championship.
The confirmation of the Williams line-up means that Toyota favourite Kazuki Nakajima has been dropped by the team after a disappointing second season.
“Nico Rosberg and Kazuki Nakajima remain our drivers until the end of 2009 and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their contribution to the team,” Williams continued. “Nico and Kazuki have represented AT&T Williams and our partners with dedication, discipline and skill and we wish them every success with their future endeavours.”
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