Share this article on LinkedIn Email

Three-time Le Mans 24 Hours winner Andre Lotterer will make his Formula 1 racing debut with Caterham at the Belgian Grand Prix, as predicted by AUTOSPORT, replacing Kamui Kobayashi.

The 32-year-old German is best known as a leading member of Audi's factory LMP1 line-up in the World Endurance Championship, but also has current single-seater experience as a frontrunner in Japan's Super Formula series.

His last F1 outings came when he was a Jaguar test driver in 2002, having raced for the team's junior arm in Formula 3.

"I am delighted to be given the opportunity to take part in a Formula 1 race weekend - I want to thank Caterham F1 team for this chance," said Lotterer.

"I'm ready for this challenge and I cannot wait to jump in the car and make the most out of the weekend ahead.

"I will need to get settled and used to the car quickly, as the team has worked on a number of updates and we will need to have as much time as possible out on track to optimise the car's performance.

"I really enjoy racing at the legendary circuit of Spa-Francorchamps, it's one of my favourite tracks and it's very close to where I grew up, so this makes the weekend even more special and one to remember."

Rumours that Kobayashi's place in the Caterham line-up were in jeopardy began shortly after founder Tony Fernandes sold the team to a group of investors advised by Colin Kolles.

Caterham said the Japanese driver still remains part of the team.

Former Toyota and Sauber driver Kobayashi had chosen to return to F1 with Caterham this year despite having an offer to continue as a factory Ferrari GT driver, following his WEC season with the Italian marque in 2013.



