Alguersuari Eyes Toro Rosso Seat for 2010, Bourdais in Danger

Jaime Alguersuari

One day after being confirmed as Red Bull's new test/reserve driver, Spanish talent Jaime Alguersuari has already set his aims for the ongoing season. While continuing to compete in the British F3 Championship and World Series by Renault series, the Spaniard made it very clear that his main focus for 2009 is to convince Red Bull to give him a shot at a race seat with Scuderia Toro Rosso next year.

Alguersuari used to test for Red Bull (briefly) in the past, and will now replace New Zealand's Brendon Hartley as reserve driver for both Red Bull backed teams for the remaining rounds of the 2009 season. His Formula One debut might actually come a lot sooner than he expects, as Sebastien Bourdais' poor performances this season are likely to lead to a few rounds of sidelining for the French driver.

“My main objective for 2010 is to race with Toro Rosso. I am not in a hurry, but I want to be on the World Series podium soon and the next season could be the right moment for F1,” said the Spanish driver in an interview with Spain's Diario AS newspaper.

As for the World Series by Renault championship, his debut in the championship was not controversy free this year. Considering that the series is run by none other than his father, many have argued that his quick promotion within the series – and towards Formula One – was not entirely based on talent.

“I am used to those suggestions because it's not possible to satisfy everybody, but the one who has to drive the car is me. My father has been very important in my life, but it is not possible to deceive Red Bull or anyone else who has supported me,” said the 19-year old.

Alguersuari's aims can only mean bad news for Bourdais, whose contract with Toro Rosso is to expire at the end of 2009. The former 4-time Champ Car winner has failed to impress Franz Tost in the first part of the season and will more than likely lose his seat with the Faeza based team for 2010.