Palmer to return to Formula 2

The 19-year-old son of series boss Jonathan Palmer finished 21st in last year's standings with just one points finish.

But he took part in all four days of winter testing at Portimao in Portugal and is aiming for his first victory this year.

"Last season was a little disappointing for me until towards the end of the year when I scored my first points," he said. "I was also quick during winter testing and hopefully I can carry this momentum into my second F2 campaign.

"The testing in Portimao in December was particularly competitive and I went really well there, so this is hopefully a good sign that I can run at the front and get my first win in F2 this season.

"I will start the season on a race by race basis to see where I stand compared to the other drivers, but I really feel that I have the potential to be a contender and if things go my way, maybe even win the title."

Jonathan Palmer added: "As with a number of young drivers, F2 was always going to be a multi-year programme for Jolyon. Last year was very challenging - I think many people underestimated just how tough the competition was - but Jo improved encouragingly over the final couple of events. He was right on the pace in winter testing and should be a regular points scorer in 2010."

Former GP2 racer Ricardo Teixeira and Formula Renault graduate Benjamin Lariche have also confirmed their places in F2 in 2010.