Minardi Replace Friesacher with Doornbos

The Dutchman has been released from his third driver role at Jordan and will line-up alongside fellow countryman Christijan Albers. Friesacher lost his place at the team after his sponsorship money dried up.

"We are pleased to welcome Robert to Minardi," Team boss Paul Stoddart said. "He has demonstrated clearly over the last year that he has the pace necessary to compete in Formula One, and we are pleased to give him the opportunity to make his World Championship debut at this weekend's German Grand Prix.

"I believe he is going to do an excellent job over the coming races, and I'm sure the Minardi team can expect even more enthusiastic support from the Netherlands, if that's possible, as we now have the first, all-Dutch driver line-up."

Stoddart went on to make it clear that Friesacher's parting of ways with the team was not a reflection of the Austrian's driving talent.

"Although commercial considerations mean we have had to bring our relationship with him to an end, this decision should in no way be taken as a reflection on his skill or ability as a driver. We continue to rate him very highly, and wish him all the best for the future."