Bird signs for Manor in Euro Series

The 20-year-old raced in the British series in 2007 with Carlin Motorsport, where he finished fourth in the standings in his rookie season.

Bird admitted that he considered remaining in Britain for another year, but he is happy to be changing championship for the third year running.

"I'm absolutely thrilled," he said. "There was a case for remaining in the UK series where I did well in my rookie year and I know the tracks, tyres, and overall set-up.

"However, given my longer-term ambition in this sport, we felt that I needed to remain on the steep learning curve I have thrived on for the last few years."

Bird has competed against Manor in the past, as he finished ahead of all of their drivers in the 2006 Formula Renault UK championship.

"I have known (team boss) John Booth for several years," he said. "He has always been extremely supportive towards me, even when I was competing against his team and I always hoped that I would drive for him one day."

Booth added that he had wanted Bird to drive for him in recent years, and he expects the British driver to shine in the Euro Series next year.

"I am obviously delighted to have Sam joining Manor, after three years of trying to get him on board," said Booth.

"It would have been an easy option for Sam to stay in the British series for 2008, but I am sure he will be a strong contender having been the strongest rookie in British F3 in 2007."

Bird has been able to switch to the Euro Series due to retaining his sponsorship deal with BP Ultimate, who sponsored him in Britain this year.