Williams has appointed Adrian Sutil to the role of official reserve driver for the 2015 season.
The team had already signed Susie Williams and GP3 champion Alex Lynn to test and development roles, but had until now yet to appoint an official reserve.
The German has been without a drive since he was dropped by Sauber last year, but with Valtteri Bottas a possible doubt for the race following back problems which forced him to miss the Australian Grand Prix, Williams have handed the reserve role to Sutil.
“I’m very proud to be a part of such a famous and great F1 team,” said Sutil. “To work for Sir Frank Williams and his team means a lot to me. I would like to thank everyone at Williams for their belief in my qualities and the opportunity to work with such a successful and competitive outfit.”
Team owner Sir Frank Williams added: “I’m delighted to have Adrian join our stable of drivers for the 2015 season. Adrian brings extensive racing experience, having competed 128 Formula One races during his career. Having most recently raced during the 2014 season also gives him excellent knowledge of the current generation of race car and new Hybrid power units, which is invaluable for anyone needing to step into the cockpit in 2015.
“The fight for a top Constructors’ Championship position will be intense this season, therefore we have selected a driver with recent race experience and are confident that if the need arose, he would be a solid pair of hands to race the FW37 and assist our 2015 campaign.”
