Carroll confirmed at Team Ireland

Carroll, 25, took Ireland's first A1GP victory in Mexico City in March and helped the squad to sixth in the championship.

The five-time GP2 race-winner is looking for nothing less than the title this season.

"I am really looking forward to the new season and racing the new A1GP car," Carroll said.

"We have one of the strongest teams in the pit lane and after the good finish to last year's series we have to set our sights on being a contender this year. The new car looks fantastic and is a real credit to A1GP. We are here to win."

Team Ireland also confirmed that Niall Quinn, who has been racing in the National class of British Formula 3 this season, will continue as the squad's rookie driver.

"I am really happy to be working with Team Ireland going into this season," said Quinn, 20. "Last year taught me a lot and we achieved an enormous amount.

"Obviously I'd like to race rather than just do the Rookie session on a Friday, but this A1GP rule really does give a young driver like me a fantastic opportunity to drive a car at this level, work with top technical people and learn tracks all over the world."