Hayes signs deal for French series

Hayes, who finished third in British F3 last year, is to lead a three-car effort by the team which ran Jeremie da Souza and Kevin Nadin last year. The Ulsterman's deal includes all of this year's international races, including Pau, Zandoort and Macau, and he is optimistic of success.

"For me it's a massive opportunity and I'm really glad to be part of what I would call a winning team," Hayes told Autosport.com. "The key is to win it [the title] in 2002 and obviously we're doing all the international races, which will be important."

Hayes has a deal for the entire season and is thought to have most of the necessary budget in place. He also insists that he has no regrets on turning his back on the British series.

After taking a series of podium finishes with Manor Motorsport last year, including a win at Brands Hatch, the 24-year-old is keen to win consistently next year. As the top drives within the British championship were snapped up, Hayes looked to have been left out in the cold for 2002, but having bagged a deal, he is upbeat about his chances.

"That's what I'm aiming for, win, win, win," added Hayes. "Getting seconds and thirds is one thing, but winning is what it's all about. And with it being my second year in F3, I want to prove to everybody that I deserve a chance at the top."

Hayes will use a Mugen-powered Dallara chassis and will test the car for the first time in March. Both of his team mates are expected to be French.