AUSTIN -- Formula One debutant Brendon Hartley says a bold remark to Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko helped plant a seed which eventually led to his opportunity with Toro Rosso at this weekend's U.S. Grand Prix.
Hartley has not driven an open-wheel car since 2012 but has been drafted in to replace Pierre Gasly as the Frenchman attempts to win the Super Formula title in Japan. Since being dropped by Red Bull's driver programme Hartley has enjoyed success in World Endurance Championship, winning the title in 2015 and then securing a maiden Le Mans 24 Hours victory this season.