Minardi unveil new test-driver

Minardi have unveiled new test-driver Giorgio Vinella after missing out on a scheduled test session at Magny-Cours due to an Italian transport strike.

Vinella, who drives in the Italian Formula 3000 series, arrived at the Minardi headquarters in Faenze, Italy, this week for a seat fitting.

The 1999 Italian Formula 3000 champion will start testing for Minardi at Vairano in northern Italy in two weeks time before testing the Minardi M02 at Ferrari's Fiorano track on July 20.

"I am very happy to be part of the Minardi team's driver line-up," said Vinella. "It is an important and crucial stage of my career because the chance is being given to me to prove myself and check my true potential behind an F1 steering wheel."