Albon certainly still plays an important role at Red Bull

Red Bull Racing starts this year with a new driver. Sergio Perez will take over from Alexander Albon this season. However, this does not mean that the Thai will be leaving the Austrian team. On the contrary, he plays an important role in the development of the new RB16B car.

Albon's performance was disappointing last year. It resulted in a seat swap. Perez was free on the market and Red Bull took its chance. This year, Albon will be able to show his skills in the renewed DTM class. Nevertheless, he will not drive the whole season in that class. There is a reason for that.

Development of the RB16B

Albon is testing a lot in Red Bull's simulator in Milton Keynes. By making a lot of metres in here, Albon hopes Red Bull will have an optimal car. "I have indeed spent a lot of time in the simulator. Our car from last year obviously had some pain points. It was all about finding those so we can be strong this year," he told Motorsport.com.

During the test days at Silverstone, the Thai also drove the RB15. This is because he remains active in Formula 1 alongside his role in the DTM. As a reserve driver, he is ready to step in if Perez or Verstappen are unable to start for any reason.