What a reserve driver does
A reserve driver in Formula 1 is a driver who is not part of the race-day lineup but is available to step in if a race driver is unable to compete due to illness, injury, or other circumstances. They also participate in simulator work, Friday practice sessions, and media activities.
Reserve drivers are the insurance policy of every F1 team. When a race driver cannot race, the reserve driver must be ready to go at a moment's notice.
How reserve drivers are selected
Most reserve drivers are young talents from a team's junior program. Red Bull's reserve drivers have included drivers like Liam Lawson and Daniel Ricciardo (in his return). Mercedes has used drivers like Frederik Vesti and Théo Pourchaire. Ferrari has promoted drivers from its academy, including Robert Shwartzman.
Some reserve drivers are experienced veterans who provide technical feedback and stability. Valtteri Bottas served as a reserve driver for Mercedes before his promotion to a race seat. Nico Hulkenberg has served as a reserve driver for multiple teams while maintaining his own race career.
The most famous reserve driver promotions
The most famous reserve driver promotion in recent memory is Nico Hulkenberg's debut at the 2020 Eifel Grand Prix, where he replaced an ill Sergio Perez at Racing Point with less than 24 hours' notice. Hulkenberg had not raced an F1 car in months but qualified respectably and finished the race.
Another notable example is Alexander Albon's return to F1 with Williams in 2022 after serving as Red Bull's reserve driver. His simulator work and Friday practice sessions kept him sharp, and when Williams offered him a race seat, he was ready.
How the role has evolved
In the modern era of F1, the reserve driver role has expanded beyond emergency substitution. Reserve drivers now spend dozens of hours in the simulator, contributing to car development and race strategy. They also participate in Friday practice sessions, giving them valuable track time and giving teams additional data.
In the 2026 era, with more complex cars and more variables to manage, the reserve driver's role in simulator work and data analysis is more important than ever. A good reserve driver is not just a backup — they are a key part of the team's development process.