MARCH 9, 2011

HRT signs Vitantonio Liuzzi for second seat

The Hispania Formula One team has announced that it has signed Vitantonio Liuzzi as the team's second driver for 2011.

The Italian driver has been looking for a drive since losing his seat at Force India at the end of last season. Liuzzi tested for HRT last month in Barcelona, and will join Indian Narain Karthikeyan, who signed for the team earlier.

Team principal Colin Kolles said, "I have known Tonio for many years as he raced with me in lower categories. He is a very professional driver who will bring a lot of benefits to the Team. I am convinced about his skills to develop a car and his speed. He has shown this in the past having contributed to a large extend developing and moving a back grid car to the front. I had the pleasure of working with him and I am very happy and proud to have him racing with Hispania Racing."

Liuzzi said, "I am really happy to have signed this agreement with Hispania Racing. I never lost hope to be in Formula One as I knew I have the experience and the right attributes for a young and ambitious team. I face a new challenge now and this excites me. I also face a lot of hard work in guiding Hispania Racing through the development of our new car. I am extremely grateful to Jos© Ramon Carabante and to Colin Kolles for giving me such an opportunity".

The team also announced that it will reveal it's new 2011 chassis, the F111, this Friday at Barcelona.