Firman relishes F1 challenge

The reigning Formula Nippon champion, who grabbed the final slot on the F1 grid this week, says the opening grand prix can't come soon enough for him.

"I'm going to enjoy every minute of driving a Formula 1 car," said Firman. "It's incredible to be involved with Jordan-Ford and I can't wait to get started. The last two days have been pretty frantic, but it's just what I expect from being involved in F1.

"I had a great car and a great team in Japan last year, and I certainly learned a lot out there. I think I've grown up a lot faster than if I had stayed in Europe in F3000. If the rain comes at a race this year then that's going to give us a chance of scoring some good points and maybe even a podium," he added.

Team boss Eddie Jordan said of his signing: "We first looked at Ralph five years ago when he won the Formula 3 championship and Macau, but it didn't work out for various reasons. Then he went off to make his money in Japan and won the championship out there, and we all know how difficult it is to do that."