Minardi eyes Arab talent

Saïd, 30, has raced extensively in Formula 3 in Europe, and still plans to race in the Austria, French and German championships next year. Under the agreement he will devise a training and evaluation programme to help other promising Arab drivers in motor racing, and will also help Minardi's commercial department source Arab sponsors.

Minardi has a history of unearthing talent from less traditional sources, most recently by running Malaysia's Alex Yoong in Formula 1. The team may give Saïd the opportunity to test in the future.

"To be involved with Minardi is an excellent opportunity," said Saïd. "My aim is to encourage activities related to motor racing in the Arab countries, while taking in to particular consideration emerging young talent who could make their driving debut in F1 one day.

"I would love to be among the first of these F1 newcomers. I am looking forward to the future co-operation with Minardi."

Gian Carlo Minardi added: "This collaboration paces the way to the frontiers of the Arab world, a relatively new geographical area for Formula 1. It is clearly a market in search of new commercial and sporting challenges, something that F1, as the pinnacle of motor racing endeavour, is able to provide."