The 41 year old from Barcelona became Spanish Formula Renault Champion in 1992 and Japanese Formula 3 title winner in 1995. The HRT driver went on to claim both the Formula Nippon and Super GT crowns of 1997. In 2001 he drove for Jaguar replacing Luciano Burti, after two seasons with Arrows and remained with Jaguar for the following season.
He is best recognised as an experienced McLaren test driver, having racked up thousands of miles for the Woking-based team. In 2005 and 2006, de la Rosa raced for McLaren, replacing Juan Pablo Montoya on occasions.
The F1 veteran has made two unexpected returns to F1.With Sauber in 2010 and with HRT this season, where he is helping to rebuild the team.
“Making it to 100 Grands Prix is something very special and I’m very motivated ahead of Italy, not only because of the 100 mark but because I’m certain that we can be even more competitive,” de la Rosa says on Tuesday. “Monza is a similar circuit to Canada, where maximum speed and brake stability are important - and these are our strengths."
“I love consecutive races because I like continuity. Besides, Monza is one of my favourite circuits because it’s very different to the rest. For all of those reasons, I’m really excited ahead of this Grand Prix,” the Spaniard added.
