Manor Marussia have announced they have signed Fabio Leimer as reserve driver for the remainder of the season.
The 26-year-old Swiss, winner of the 2013 GP2 title, will join the team at selected races in support of race drivers Will Stevens and Roberto Merhi.
In a statement, Manor Marussia also said that Leimer will have the opportunity to drive in selected P1 sessions at forthcoming races.
“I’m thrilled to be provided with this opportunity and I’d like to thank the Manor Marussia F1 Team for the faith they have shown in my ability,” Leimer said.
“In particular I’m very excited to have the chance to drive the car in selected FP1s, but I am also looking forward to spending a lot of time trackside with the team, contributing my observations and experience in engineering situations and also learning about the team and a Formula 1 operation.
“It’s a huge step for me and I can’t wait to get started and hopefully reward the team’s confidence in me.”
Team principal John Booth added: “We’re delighted to welcome Fabio to our team. We always keep a close eye on drivers competing in the feeder series and their potential for making the step up to Formula 1.
“Fabio has been on that radar for a number of years, so we’re pleased to give him the opportunity to progress as he is a very talented driver and certainly deserving of this opportunity.”
Leimer has only once before tested an F1 car, the 2011 Sauber at that year's Young Driver Test in Abu Dhabi, and last season competed in the World Endurance Championship.