Sirotkin joins Renault as 2019 reserve driver

Having struggled with Williams' underperforming FW41 throughout his rookie season, the 23-year-old was left without a race seat for the 2019 season and instead found himself looking in on F1 from the outside.

Sirotkin will work in the simulator as well as other race weekend duties whilst competing in the World Endurance Championship with SMP Racing.

His new role could play an important part of the French team's revival as they look to join the big three of Formula One and close the gap at the top.

“I am very pleased to rejoin the friendly Renault F1 Team and return to Formula 1,” Sirotkin said.

“We are well acquainted with the team, I spent the whole 2017 in their factory and in the pit box. It would be interesting to learn how far Renault has advanced in the development of the car over the past year - because last season we were rivals, and I could not see the work from the inside.

"I am pleased to join the team as a reserve driver and work alongside Nico Hulkenberg, with whom we have previously collaborated, and Daniel Ricciardo, with whom I didn’t have a chance to work closely.

"I am sure, it will be an interesting season and I wish the Renault F1 Team to fight for the highest positions.”