Baumgartner Offered Minardi Seat for 2004

Minardi announced today that they have offered Hungarian driver Zsolt Baumgartner to join the team as a race driver in 2004.

Minardi, who have Italian Gianmaria Bruni as their first driver for 2004, said they were hoping to finalise their driver line-up before the Christmas break. They said Baumgartner's offer is conditional on the early completion of the necessary commercial arrangements.

"It is hoped that the matter will be resolved this week," Minardi said in a statement.

The 22-year old became Hungary's first Formula One driver this year, when he tested and then raced for the Jordan team at the Hungarian and Italian Grands Prix.

"I have watched Zsolt's racing career since his F3000 days," said team principal Paul Stoddart. "I was hugely impressed by the way in which he conducted himself when thrust into the spotlight at his home Grand Prix, in Hungary, this year, stepping in for the injured Ralph Firman at very short notice.

"I'm sure he will be a real asset to European Minardi, and as he is fluent in five languages, including Italian, I am sure he will fit like a glove when it comes to working with the team. We look forward to a great season with Zsolt in 2004."