Sato signs two-year Jordan race deal

The British Formula 3 champion has only tested for Jordan once, back in December last year. But Jordan was impressed by his performance and has watched his progress this year in F3. He scored a record 12 wins from 13 rounds, along with the Marlboro Masters at Zandvoort and the non-championship British GP support race.

"Today's announcement makes me extremely happy as it is the goal I set out to achieve by deciding to do a second year in F3 and combine this with F1 testing," said Sato. "I am very excited about joining Jordan and am looking forward very much to starting work with the team, who I know already from my testing with them last year. This is a fantastic opportunity."

Team boss Eddie Jordan said: "Sato has proved himself to be quick and outstandingly talented in the British F3 championship this year and deserves an opportunity to race in F1.

"Sato's contract with Jordan, alongside the three-year deal we have signed with Giancarlo Fisichella, gives Jordan vital continuity and a strong, long-term driver line-up which will be the key to our development with Honda. We hope that with the help of Honda and Bridgestone, we can develop Sato to make him the first Japanese driver to win a GP."

This year, Sato has been one of British American Racing's test drivers, Jordan's direct rivals. Both teams are powered by works Honda engines.

For full Eddie Jordan Q&A, click here.

For full Takuma Sato Q&A, click here.