Albers wins Minardi 2005 drive

Christijan Albers was today confirmed as a Minardi driver for the 2005 Formula One season.

The Dutch driver, a former German Formula Three champion who spent last season racing touring cars in the DTM, tested for both Minardi and Jordan recently.

The 25-year-old impressed Minardi boss Paul Stoddart during that brief test and has managed to put together a sponsorship package to race for the under-funded team next season.

Speaking in Holland, Stoddart said: “We are very pleased to be able to announce Christijan as one of our two race drivers for 2005.

“He has always been a naturally quick driver, but it is clear there is now an added maturity and focus with that speed.

“In short, we believe he is absolutely ready for Formula One, and we fully expect him to surprise a few people this coming season, particularly since Minardi also has ambitious plans.”

Minardi have enjoyed a close relationship with Dutch drivers for the past two seasons and has benefited from Dutch sponsorship.

Albers’ team-mate has yet to be announced, although Zsolt Baumgartner, who drove for Minardi last season and scored their only point of the year, is favourite to retain his seat.