Albers named as Midland F1 driver

Christijan Albers profile

F1 newcomers Midland have confirmed Dutchman Christijan Albers as one of their two race drivers for next year.

The 26-year-old scored four points for Minardi this season, and has a best F1 placing of fifth, but was left without a seat when they were sold to Red Bull.

Russian-born Canadian billionaire Alex Shnaider created Midland after buying the Jordan F1 team earlier this year.

Dutchman Nicky Pastorelli has already been confirmed as their test and reserve driver for 2006.

Albers, who has signed a two-year contract, said: "I appreciate all I have learned with Minardi this season, and look on this move as a step forward. It is by far the most challenging option for the future."

I am impressed by the way the team, along with partners Bridgestone and Toyota, are developing the new car Christijan Albers

The former DTM driver tested with Midland in December 2004 and previously worked with managing director Colin Kolles during his time in Formula Three in Germany.

Kolles praised his new acquisition and said: "He is very competitive, professional and a proven race winner. I am confident he will acclimatise himself to our team very quickly."

Midland have yet to name their second race driver, with last season's incumbents Narain Karthikeyan and Tiago Monteiro, plus Briton Anthony Davidson in the frame.