Salo confirmed for San Marino

The Finn, unemployed since leaving Arrows just before the season began, replaces Ricardo Zonta, who was injured in practice for the last race at Interlagos.

The Brazilian suffered a cut tendon in his left foot but had hoped to be fit in time for Imola. Salo will race alongside Jacques Villeneuve.

Doctors have advised Zonta not to put any undue strain on his damaged foot, and it was felt that the heavy braking required at the Italian circuit would only aggravate the injury.

'It's a great shame that Ricardo will not be able to drive for us at Imola,' said BAR boss Craig Pollock.

'He agrees though, that the quickest way back into the cockpit is to allow his foot adequate time to heal fully and not rush his return.

'In the meantime, we're pleased to have secured the services of Mika Salo. He's a quick driver and has current F1 experience. There's the added bonus that he and Jacques are good friends and will undoubtedly work well together.'

Salo has already had one test in the BAR and was optimistic ahead of his return to F1.

'I am very pleased to be able to step into what I am sure is a competitive car,' he said, 'my job now is to make the most of the opportunity and do the best I can. It should be fun. I'm looking forward to it.'

The Finn has starred at Imola before. He was heading for a top four finish in 1996 until his Tyrrell's engine failed, and was second quickest in the warm-up for Arrows last season, only for pit stop problems to spoil his race.