Mexican Martinez to replace Servia

The Mexican, who made his series debut for Forsythe in the 2006 finale, will replace Oriol Servia as Paul Tracy's teammate in both Surfers Paradise, Australia and Mexico City.

He said: "I'm very happy to be working with Forsythe Championship Racing. They gave me my first drive in Champ Car last year and it went pretty well. I'm looking forward to driving the new DP01, it seems like a really good racecar.

"I'm going to get some testing in the new car at Sebring before we go to Australia, which will give me a good chance to work with the team and get back up to speed.

"I'll have to learn the track in Australia , so it will be a challenge but when we get to Mexico City I'm looking forward to having a great weekend."

Last year, Martinez caused a stir at his home race when he outqualified and outraced fellow debutant and teammate Buddy Rice, who was subbing for the injured Paul Tracy.

In the announcement today, Forsythe's VPO Neil Micklewright, said: "David did a good job for us last year in Mexico City, qualifying in the top ten and running a very consistent race. Even though he hasn't driven the DP01 yet, we learned last year that he adapts quickly to new cars.

"Our test in Sebring [in two weeks' time] will give him some good seat time. Don't forget he completed every race lap during the 2006 Atlantic Championship, so he has the patience to keep his nose clean and drive within his limits."

Both Micklewright and team-owner Jerry Forsythe paid tribute to Servia, who stood in for Tracy for two races when the 2003 champion hurt his back in practice at Long Beach, and then replaced Mario Dominguez in the No7 car.

Despite not competing at two events this year, the Catalan is currently sixth in the championship.

Said Forsythe: "Oriol did a tremendous job for us. He came into the team quickly and really shined. I wish him the best of luck in the future," while Micklewright added: "It is a shame we aren't able to keep Oriol as well.

"He has done a great job this year and has been a valuable member of Forsythe Championship Racing."