“Hopefully we can bring back some memories and create some great new
ones too. I also want to get some good results in return for the support my
country has given me to help get me to this position today.
“I am very proud to be Brazilian and more motivated than ever to
demonstrate what I can do. Ever since I first sat in a go-kart I never
wanted to do anything else.”
Senna, who will drive the team’s new car for the first time at the opening
test in Jerez on February 9, partners Venezuelan Pastor Maldonado at the
Grove-based marque.
Explaining the reasoning behind appointing Senna, team principal Sir Frank
Williams said: “The circumstances of Bruno’s two seasons in Formula One
have not given him an ideal opportunity to deliver consistently.
“So it was essential we spent as much time with him as possible to
understand and evaluate him as a driver.
“We have done this both on track and in our simulator and he has proven
quick, technically insightful and above all capable of learning and applying
his learning quickly and consistently.
“Now we are looking forward to seeing that talent in our race car.”
Barrichello, meanwhile, was quick to pass on his best wishes to Senna via his
Twitter account.
The 39-year-old said: “I won’t be driving the Williams car this year. I
wish my friend @BSenna all the best … the future is wide open.”