Pantano secures Jordan race seat

As expected, Giorgio Pantano will complete Jordan's driver line up for 2004, the Italian being announced on February 13th as teammate to Nick Heidfeld. Pantano, who won the German F3 title in 2000 on his first attempt and has since competed in F3000, tested for Jordan at Jerez this week.

"I'm so happy," said Pantano in a statement from the team. "I want to thank Eddie Jordan and everybody at Jordan Grand Prix for giving me the opportunity to be in F1 and show my ability. I will be giving my all as I really want to guarantee them good results. There are a lot of people I have to thank for helping me get to this position and I hope I will make them proud."

"I'm looking forward to driving the car some more in the test sessions, and then of course, I am really excited about my first Grand Prix in Melbourne in just a few weeks time."

Team boss Eddie Jordan said, "Giorgio performed consistently with accomplished racecraft at the front of the field for three years in F3000 and he's ready for the challenge in F1. In Jordan Ford's driver pairing I believe we have the best possible combination of youth, experience and natural ability."

"Giorgio and Nick are seriously quick, skilled and hungry for success, which is exactly what we need to rejuvenate the team and lead Jordan's fight-back in 2004. I can't wait for the first race!"

The deal puts Jos Verstappen and 2003 Jordan driver Ralph Firman out of an F1 drive for this season. Neither can take a test role as they have competed in more than six Grands Prix in the last two years.