Carlin confident in Macau rookies

The squad's attack will be led by British Formula Three race winners Sam Bird and Niall Breen, while Brendon Hartley, who finished fourth in the F3 Masters at Zolder this year, will also race for the team that he has joined for the 2008 season.

Carlin won the prestigious event back in 2001 with Takuma Sato, and their most recent strong showing was a second place with Robert Kubica in 2005.

However, the team's lead trio will all be taking part in the race for the first time, but Trevor Carlin believes that his rookie drivers are capable of putting in a good performance.

"Competition is extremely strong this year and Sam, Niall, and Brendon are all Macau rookies, but we still believe we have a strong team," he said.

"We've seen before that experience doesn't guarantee success around the streets of Macau.

"Drivers have won and finished on the podium at their first attempt, so although it will be a challenge, our drivers should not be overlooked."

Bird, who finished fourth in this year's British championship with two race wins, said that he is hoping to be the highest-placed newcomer this weekend.

"Macau is an incredibly prestigious event and the circuit is one of the most challenging in the world," he said.

"It will be a steep learning curve, but I'm confident that we have a great package, and I'm aiming to be top rookie. I can't wait to get to the track."

Local driver Lei Kit Meng will drive Carlin's fourth entry in the race this weekend.