Jarvis to make debut in Barcelona

The runner-up in this year's British formula three championship will replace Hayanari Shimoda after a last minute call-up. The team said Shimoda was unavailable to drive for the season finale.  

"This weekend will be a steep learning curve for Oliver, as this will be his first outing with the team in a World Series Car and his first time at Barcelona," said Victory team manager David Lowe. 

"Obviously, its great experience for him, and the main aim will be for him to learn about the car and the circuit." 

Jarvis added: "I got a phone call at 3 o'clock yesterday asking me to come out on the off-chance I might be needed.

"I just made the 22.30 flight and then came straight to the circuit to have a seat fitting, which we completed by about one in the morning. I then got up at 7a.m to have a run around the track."

With an unfamiliar car and circuit, Jarvis expects to be playing catch-up throughout the meeting.

"I was initially lacking in speed in the high-speed corners, and I am losing time at the moment due to a general lack of familiarity with the track. Unfortunately my teammate, Alvaro (Parente), broke down in this morning's session so I don't have any data from him. Hopefully, though, we can be somewhere near the front."

Although the meeting will provide a valuable taste of the World Series, Jarvis' plans for 2006 have yet to be firmed up.

"Obviously it's a chance to look closely at this championship. I am keeping all my options open for next year, I haven't completely ruled out doing another season of F3, or GP2."