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Giedo van der Garde joins Sauber as 2014 Formula 1 reserve driver

Giedo van der Garde will be the Sauber Formula 1 team's test and reserve driver during the 2014 season

The announcement confirms the Dutchman's exit from the Caterham team, which is expected to reveal its new line-up later on Tuesday.

Van der Garde made his grand prix debut with Caterham in 2013 after four years competing in the GP2 Series.

Sauber said the 27-year-old will be driving during some Friday practice sessions and "several tests" in the season.

"We are happy to have Giedo van der Garde on board. He has four years experience in GP2 and he drove one year in Formula 1," said Sauber boss Monisha Kaltenborn.

"These are good credentials to work successfully with our team. Many times Giedo has shown his talent as a race driver.

"At the same time the team would like to support him to further develop his skills. Giedo has the right attitude to take the next step forward."

Van der Garde said he is now fully focused on securing a racing drive with the team for 2015.

"I consider this an important step in my career. It is my goal to help the team with the development of the new car," van der Garde added.

"But, of course, I am a racing driver, and I want to show the team and everybody else what I am capable of and that I deserve a race seat with Sauber in 2015.

"After all, my ambition remains unchanged and I am highly motivated to succeed in Formula 1, especially in the long term.

"I am very thankful to Caterham that they gave me a chance to get a taste of Formula 1.

"I enjoyed a fantastic season with the team and I have learned a lot. The experience gained will surely help me during the rest of my career."

Caterham has confirmed van der Garde's team-mate during the 2013 season, Charles Pic, will also be leaving the squad.

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