Lotus announces trio of test drivers

Valsecchi and Razia drive for Lotus' sister squad AirAsia in GP2, and both had a run with the Formula 1 team at Catalunya this week. Their deal includes appearances in a number of yet to be determined grand prix practice sessions. Razia is officially labelled as 'third driver' with Valsecchi a 'test driver'.

Lotus CEO Riad Asmat said: "Luiz and Davide's efforts have helped Team AirAsia enjoy a very strong start to its debut season and their roles with Team Lotus will give them invaluable experience of the highest level of global motorsport which will help their natural talents develop in the right direction."

Razia was also a test driver for Virgin last season, and drove in the rookie sessions in Abu Dhabi at the end of the year. Valsecchi made his F1 debut at the same time, testing for Hispania.

Teixeira, who raced in Formula 2 last season, also drove the Lotus in a filming session and brief test this winter. A Lotus statement said he would be 'second test driver' as part of a 'long-term development programme'.

"On both my outings in Spain I took big steps forward as a racing driver, and I am very excited about the chance to play an active role in the growth of the team over the coming years," said Teixeira.

"There is a very special atmosphere in Team Lotus and to be able to represent my country as the first Angolan in F1 in this team means a huge amount to me personally, to my family and my whole country."