Yoong craves second season with Minardi

The 25-year-old Malaysian, who failed to qualify for the San Marino Grand Prix earlier this year, says he has learnt a lot during his time with the squad and believes he can put that to good use in the future.

"I believe the first half of this year has enabled me to learn a lot about Formula 1, and that experience is now beginning to be reflected in my on-track performance," said Yoong. "I also realise that, with the exception of three of the past nine races, the results have not really been there, and that there has been criticism, both at home and abroad, as a result.

He added: "I feel I'm much stronger now than at the beginning of the year. My qualifying pace, and especially my race pace, have improved, and I feel confident this will show in my favour during the balance of the season."