Formula One news

Montagny ready to pick up Panis' mantle

Franck Montagny's first test as the official Toyota third driver begins today in Valencia, Spain where he will be joined by Jarno Trulli for the start of the team's pre-season testing programme. Montagny comes on board as compatriot Olivier Panis leaves the squad.

"It is quite strange for me to be coming into Toyota as Olivier is leaving because I remember watching Olivier race in Formula 1 when I was still in junior categories a long time ago," Montagny says. 

"When I think about that it seems a bit weird to be, in a sense, taking over from him at Toyota but I am pleased to take this job for sure," he added. "I always enjoyed watching him race in Formula 1 and I know he did a great job for Toyota."

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