Austria's Patrick Friesacher has been named as Minardi's second race driver for the forthcoming Formula One season.
The 24-year-old will join Dutchman Christijan Albers on the grid for the first race in Melbourne on March 6.
Friesacher, who has won two races in Formula 3000, said: "For me, it is the realisation of a long-held dream to be in F1. I am extremely happy."
Minardi had been expected to sign Denmark's Nicolas Kiesa, but a funding problem opened the door for Friesacher.
Minardi boss Paul Stoddart was impressed by the Austrian in testing last November.
"He's a quick and, equally importantly, consistent driver, who is also capable of providing good technical feedback to the engineers.
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