Jordan Grand Prix and the Midland Group have announced that they have signed Nicky Pastorelli as the team's official test and Friday driver for the 2006 FIA Formula One World Championship. The talented 22 year-old Dutchman was already the official Jordan Grand Prix test driver in 2005 and was part of the Young Driver Development Program initiated by Midland F1 to help promising junior drivers confirm their talent in preparation for their entry into Formula One.

Colin Kolles, Managing Director of Jordan Grand Prix: "I have been watching Nicky's career for a few years now and I was convinced he could do a good job for the team. Therefore we decided to give him an opportunity as our official test driver in 2005. He proved himself very competent in F1 and now we are happy that he will continue working with us in 2006 to help us get the most out of Friday free practice sessions and at the same time he has an opportunity to keep on learning Formula One."

Nicky Pastorelli commented: "I am very happy to be given this great opportunity to drive for Midland in 2006 as the official test and Friday driver. During 2005, I have come to know and appreciate the team and I am delighted to be able to continue working with them in 2006. This also means that they were happy with the job I have done; so for me, this is very encouraging. I am really looking forward to 2006 and to doing my best for the team."