Zoom Playing his part in the McLaren success story

Current McLaren Mercedes test driver Pedro de la Rosa is celebrating ten years in the sport this weekend. At the wheel of an Arrows A20 fitted with a 3-litre Hart V10, de la Rosa started his first Grand Prix from 18th and finished sixth, scoring a point on his Formula One debut.

After a stint at Jaguar Racing, de la Rosa joined McLaren Mercedes in 2003 and has become an integral part of the operation, racing for the team on nine occasions.

McLaren today paid tribute to the Spanish test veteran. De la Rosa made 72 Grand Prix starts and recorded a runner up finish for the team back at the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2006 behind first-time race winner Jenson Button.

Lewis Hamilton
“I’ve known Pedro since he joined the team in 2003. His approach, outlook and positivity were an inspiration to me as I prepared to make my Formula One debut. His efforts over the years have lifted this team to some phenomenal heights. I am proud of what Pedro has done – and continues to do – for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, the guy is a legend.”

Heikki Kovalainen
“Pedro is such a professional. He has incredible technical knowledge, takes his job very seriously, works so hard and still has 100 percent motivation to help improve the team and the car. He’s also one of the nicest guys in the paddock, somebody who takes the extra time to ensure the drivers are properly represented by the GPDA and, perhaps most importantly, somebody who will always put a smile on your face. ”

Martin Whitmarsh
“If you are looking for an example of a modern Formula One driver who works tirelessly to ensure that no stone is left unturned in the quest for additional performance, then you need look no further than Pedro. There is absolutely no denying that his considerable abilities have had a direct impact on our performance. In particular, his relentless support and guidance during the seasonal development of last year’s MP4-23 helped maintain it at the competitive vanguard until the crucial final race in Brazil. He is not only the best test driver in the business, he is also a fantastic bloke and an essential and much-loved part of our team.”

Norbert Haug
“Ten Years After: what great memories! I was here in Melbourne when Pedro started his first Formula One race for Arrows. He is such a dedicated driver and a knowledgeable specialist – arguably the man with the biggest technical background behind a Formula One steering wheel. Pedro came to McLaren Mercedes nine Formula One cars ago, droving and helping to develop all of them and contributing enormously to our recent successes. Pedro is an integral part of a team which has won 27 Grand Prix since he joined in 2003. Most importantly of all, Pedro is a very good friend and always will be. Thanks Pedro, we need you even more with the greater restrictions on testing and I feel privileged to work with you.”

E.A. © CAPSIS International