Albers confirmed at Midland

Albers, 26, made his Grand Prix debut with Minardi this year, scoring four points when he finished fifth in the six-car fiasco at Indianapolis in June after the seven Michelin-equipped teams withdrew before the start because of tyre safety concerns.

"I have known Christijan since 1999, when he was driving successfully in Formula Three in Germany, winning six races and starting 10 times from pole," said Midland's managing director Collin Kolles.

"Since then, I have followed his motorsport career with keen interest. He is very competitive, professional and a proven race winner. I am confident he will acclimatise himself to our team very quickly and help us with the car's development throughout the season."

Midland, owned by Russian-born Canadian billionaire Alex Shnaider, have already confirmed Dutchman Nicky Pastorelli as their test and reserve driver for 2006.

Midland will relaunch the team formerly known as Jordan Grand Prix under their own banner on 15 November.

Albers will conduct his first test with the team on 7 December 2005 at Jerez, Spain.

"I am really happy to be taking the next step in my F1 career with the Midland team," said Albers. "I appreciate all I have learned with Minardi this season, and look on this move as a step forward. It is by far the most challenging option for the future.

"I know the team a little bit already, as I tested with them in December 2004; and I have known Colin since 1999, when I had a very successful F3 season in Germany. I am impressed by the way the team, along with partners Bridgestone and Toyota, are developing the new car."