BBC pundit David Coulthard has been appointed reserve driver for the Red Bull teams for the opening races of the season after the original candidate, Brendon Hartley, failed to secure his Superlicense in time. Without the Superlicense, Hartley wouldn't have been allowed participate in any on-track action at Grand Prix weekends, therefore prompting the teams to appoint Coulthard at short notice. After an illustrious 15-year career in F1, four of those with Red Bull, Coulthard retired after last year's Brazilian Grand Prix, but still attends races as a Red Bull advisor and a commentator on the BBC's F1 coverage.

Although Hartley completed the necessary 300 km mileage in an F1 single-seater to secure the Superlicense, having tested for Red Bull in December, the New Zealander is yet to receive the paperwork. It's understood that Red Bull are hopeful of securing the youngster's license by the time the F1 circus reaches Europe in May, until which time Coulthard will remain as their reserve.