Ferrari to evaluate Gutierrez for future F1 drive in '16, Haas says

Following months of speculation, Gutierrez was finally confirmed as one of newcomer Haas's two drivers at the end of October, alongside Romain Grosjean.

Given the technical agreement between Haas and Ferrari, and Gutierrez's role with the Scuderia as test and reserve driver, the former Sauber driver's appointment came as no surprise.

Owner Gene Haas has confirmed Ferrari approached him about putting Gutierrez in one of his cars for 2016, with a view towards determining whether the 24-year-old could fill one of its own race seats further down the line.

"Ferrari is like a top-notch university, and if you go to that university then you have good credentials," Haas told Autosport.

"If anything, most of it is the fact Ferrari said 'Here's a driver you should consider and we would like to have him in your car'.

"Ferrari was interested in Esteban driving. Part of it is they would like to try him out so that they can evaluate him for a Ferrari drive down the road.

"I don't know what Ferrari's personal point of view is, but my point of view would be is they put talent in cars that they think have a potential to be their future drivers."

Haas recognises on that basis all eyes at Ferrari will be on Gutierrez to see how he performs, especially given that Kimi Raikkonen's latest contract only covers the 2016 season.

"Well, if you want to be a successful Formula 1 driver and compete for championships, there's pressure," Haas added. "Immense pressure."