Minardi sign Russian

Minardi are yet to confirm their driver line-up for 2003

Minardi have signed Russian Sergei Zlobin as their test driver for the 2003 Formula One season.

"We will work closely with Sergei so one day he could drive a Formula One car for us," said managing director Giancarlo Minardi.

"I can be more specific about his future in Formula One racing after we have a few tests in Valencia later this month."

The arrival of Zlobin increases the pressure on Alex Yoong.

The Malaysian driver was dropped by Minardi at the end of last season but was offered a test role within the team.

Yoong poised for Cart

Earlier this year, Zlobin became the first Russian to test an F1 car as part of a sponsorship deal with Russian gas giants Gazprom.

Minardi have yet to decide their two drivers for next season but expect to make an announcement soon.