Sauber signs new test driver

Team boss Peter Sauber has gained a reputation in recent years for unearthing young talent, having given championship leader Kimi Raikkonen and Ferrari tester Felipe Massa their Formula 1 debuts.

"Every young racer sets his sights on Formula 1," said 19 year-old Jani, "and thus being test driver for Sauber represents a unique opportunity for me. Being given this chance by the Swiss F1 team, to me, has a very special meaning."

Peter Sauber said: "Having watched Neel Jani's career for quite some time, I got to know him better last year. There's no doubt that Neel has a lot of talent, and I feel that the time has come to give him this chance."

Jani caught Sauber's attention when he challenged for the Formula Renault Eurocup title last year. "I was particularly impressed by the way he clinched pole position in the final race under great pressure, then dominating the race as well as driving the fastest lap. To me, this shows he possesses the mental strength that is necessary for being successful in this sport."

Jani, who is competing this season in the Formula Renault V6 championship, will have his first run for the Swiss team next week, when he conducts straight-line testing for the team at Vairano in Italy.