GP2 champion Pastor Maldonado will join Rubens Barrichello at Williams next season as the team confirmed their line-up on Wednesday.
The 25-year-old tested for the team during the young driver tests in Abu Dhabi in late November.
It’s thought the Venezuelan will bring significant backing with him to the team, helping their current financial issues after the withdrawal of several key sponsors.
“I feel very privileged that Williams has selected me as one of their race drivers,” said Maldonado.
“It is a great way to end what has already been an amazing year for me. I tested with the team in Abu Dhabi, but can’t wait to start working with everyone properly to be in the best possible shape going into next year.
“2011 will be the first time in nearly thirty years that a Venezuelan has driven a Formula One car so I will be looking to get some good results in return for the support my country has given me to help get me to this position today,” he added.
Frank Williams commented on the appointment of Maldonado: “Pastor first caught my eye in 2007 when he drove a masterful race at Monaco. Since then, he has regularly reminded us of his unquestionable talent with some skilful wins, particularly during this year’s GP2 championship, taking an unsurpassed record of six successive victories.
“Of course, we already know Pastor from the time he spent with the team at the Abu Dhabi test, but we are very much looking forward to developing his talent over the winter and a fruitful season with him next year.”
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