JULY 22, 2003

Minardi sign Bruni as test driver

European Minardi Cosworth has named 22 year-old Italian Gianmaria Bruni as their official test and reserve driver for the remainder of the 2003 season. He will take part in the official Monza test on September 2-4, and will run in Friday morning test sessions during Grand Prix weekends. Bruni has support from a group of Italian investors.

"Initial discussions took place over a year ago with Giancarlo Minardi, who is heavily involved in formulating our young driver development strategy, and we have now had the chance to make our choice. 'Gimmy', as he likes to be called, has been a winner in Italian and European-level motor racing championships, currently lies second in the F3000 European Championship, and is clearly a very talented driver who is ready to make the final step to Formula One. I'm sure he is going to be a great addition to the team."