SEPTEMBER 7, 2000

Burti confirmed as new Jaguar driver

Jaguar announced on Thursday that Luciano Burti will team up with Briton Eddie Irvine for next season.

The Brazilian has test drove for the team this season and was handed his Formula One debut in the Austrian Grand Prix after Irvine pulled out with abdominal pains.

Burti has been rewarded for his efforts by landing his place alongside Irvine in place of fellow Brit Johnny Herbert, who has opted for a career in America's Champ Cars.

Team-boss Neil Ressler said: "He has been a yeoman test driver this year and done what we asked him to do. He is well known to the team and we have all been impressed with his conduct."

Burti is also looking forward to the new challenge after having worked at 25-test's for the Milton Keynes-based team in their first year in the sport.

"I am very happy to entering Formula One with Jaguar," Burti said. "It has been a year of hard work but it has definitely paid off.

"I am very proud to be with the team and such an emotional mane and a proud history and I hope I can be part of a good Jaguar. That is my aim and I will be working hard for it.