Jordan snap up Sato

Sato will partner partner Italian Giancarlo Fisichella

Japanese driver Takuma Sato has signed a two-year deal with Jordan, the Formula One team announced on Wednesday.

Team owner Eddie Jordan confirmed at a media conference in Tokyo that Sato would partner Italian Giancarlo Fisichella next season.

The team will also have an option for an additional two years under the terms of the contract, Jordan said.

Sato, who became the first Japanese driver to win the British Formula Three title after a record 12th victory of the season at Silverstone last month, called the move a "dream chance".

I will try to be a model professional and push myself to the limit

Takuma Sato

"I know there will be a lot expected of me on such a big stage and I know I can't afford mistakes," he said.

"I will try to be a model professional and push myself to the limit."

Sato is replacing veteran Jean Alesi, who has since announced his retirement from the sport.

Alesi will be driving in his 201st grand prix at Suzuka on Sunday and had hoped his close friend Jordan would keep him on next season.

But Jordan has decided to go for new blood and Alesi has decided to call it a day.

Jordan, meanwhile, said his team were "lucky" to secure the services of Sato, who will become the seventh Japanese driver to race in Formula One.

"Sato is unique in that he is the first Japanese driver to get where he is on his own absolute ability," he said.

"There is no substitute for speed and talent. He has all the attributes of a potential world champion."