» McLaren return unlikely for de la Rosa

Former McLaren test driver Pedro de la Rosa has talked down suggestions that he could return to his former role with the team in 2011.

The Barcelona-born driver occupied the position for several years before making an unsuccessful full-time return to the Sauber team in 2010, before being dumped mid-season after a largely unimpressive comeback season with the Swiss outfit.

He subsequently joined Pirelli as its tyre tester and – while his contract with the Italian company has just lapsed – it is believed he could stay on board to continue his work with them.

Reports from de la Rosa’s homeland had claimed that the 39-year-old was a candidate to return to McLaren, but the prospects are looking slim, as he admitted to the EFE news agency.

“To be with McLaren looks difficult, but there are other alternatives,” he said.

“Today I have my mobile phone, because I need to know what I will be doing this year, but I’m going to have to wait a little longer.”

[Original image via AUTOSPORT]