Sauber Motorsport, which runs the Alfa Romeo Racing entry in Formula 1, partnered with Charouz Racing System in November to launch the Sauber Junior Team programme.
The programme mission is to support and develop the skills of a carefully-selected group of young drivers from 2019 onwards.
The Sauber Junior Team initiative is unique in international motorsport as it gives talented youngsters a clear pathway to potentially progress from the FIA's entry-level single-seater category to the verge of Formula 1 with a single team.
American Juan Manuel Correa has been selected to join the Sauber Junior Team in the 2019 FIA Formula 2 Championship.
The 19-year-old, who graduates from the GP3 Series, impressed the Charouz Racing System team when he drove one of its F2 cars during the championship’s post-season test in Abu Dhabi last November. He set the fastest overall lap time on the day that he lapped the Yas Marina circuit.
Juan Manuel Correa said:
“This season is an incredible opportunity for my career not only because of the high-quality team that is Charouz Racing System, but also because it opens up a clear potential door to F1 through the Sauber Junior Team."
"A programme like this is what many drivers dream of, and I am very honoured to have been selected to be a part of it. I am confident that with the added contributions and knowledge from Sauber, I will be able to continue enhancing myself as a driver and have a successful rookie campaign."
Bob Vavrik, Charouz Racing System Managing Director said:
"JM proved he has lots of natural talent when he joined us to take part in his first F2 test at the end of last season in Abu Dhabi. Despite having zero experience in the car, he was the fastest driver during the whole day. He's an exciting talent and one that we feel will benefit from the support the Sauber Junior Team offers. We're looking forward to seeing what he can achieve in F2 this season."
Frédéric Vasseur, Team Principal Alfa Romeo Racing and CEO Sauber Motorsport AG said:
“The Sauber Junior Team is heading into the 2019 season with a strong line-up in the FIA single-seater categories – F2, F3 and F4. Our project was launched with the goal of passing on our experience to young drivers and providing a platform where they can successfully develop their skills and come closer to their dream of racing at the pinnacle of motorsport one day. We look forward to our collaboration and will follow the progress of these young talents closely.”
