Ferrari boss Maurizio Arrivabene has claimed that Esteban Gutierrez was thrust into the limelight of Formula 1 too soon.
The Mexican, who was announced as test driver for the Scuderia last week, joined Sauber in 2013, but was dropped after two seasons with the Swiss constructor.
However, Arrivabene has suggested that the 23-year-old may have benefited from being introduced to grand prix racing at a later date.
Arrivabene is quoted by GPUpdate.net as saying: "He is a driver that made his debut in F1 too soon.
"Talented drivers must not be thrown on to the scene too early. I am sure he is talented and will have a chance to show it."
Ferrari, who finished fourth in the 2014 team standings, will have four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel racing alongside Kimi Raikkonen next season.
