Minardi praise 2007 driver line-up

Clarke, who last year finished second in the rookie standings for the previous incarnation of the Minardi team (CTE Racing-HVM) has not yet driven one of the new Panoz-built DP01s, but team principal and co-owner Keith Wiggins has long made it clear that he wanted at least one of his 2006 drivers back on board to accompany series rookie Doornbos.

Wiggins said:"Both drivers have got a very high level of talent. That was the most important consideration, and they know how to push in the street course environment.

"Both have got experience - Robert with the new car, Dan with Champ Car overall and most of the circuits. If we work together as a team, then they can draw off each other's experience and the end result will be good."

Clarke, who racked up a podium finish and a pole position in his rookie season said he will not be intimidated by his lack of knowledge of the car.

"From the car point of view, I've talked to all the drivers and they've said that it is pretty similar to the old one but with more downforce. Also the paddleshift gearbox shouldn't be a problem: it should take only a couple of sessions to get used to that.

"I've been to a lot of new circuits and found myself in unexpected situations and we've shown we can adapt, so I'm not bothered by the new car. I'm relaxed and happy about this. I have stayed close to the team over the winter, and we're like a family now."

Team owner Paul Stoddart said:"Ever since I entered the series Robert Doornbos was a name very much in my frame, and he will race for us in conjunction with testing for Red Bull Racing in Formula One.

"As for Dan, I was very impressed that he stayed loyal to Minardi and turned down an opportunity to test with another team.

"As well as that we know he's very very fast and it was important to us to have continuity as well as an experienced team-mate for Robert."