Russian driver Sergei Zlobin will continue his Formula One testing programme with Minardi after signing up to a four-month stint until the end of the year.
Moscow-based Zlobin became the first Russian to test a grand prix car in 2002 with Minardi and has since had three runs with the Anglo-Italian team at the Italian circuits of Fiorano and Mugello and in Spain at Valencia.
Minardi team principal Paul Stoddart said today "We're very pleased to welcome Sergei back to Minardi in order that he can resume the testing programme he commenced with us in 2002."
"Considering the ever-increasing interest in Formula One in the countries of Eastern Europe, I think it's very important that the sport should be working towards the ultimate goal of having a Russian driver in its ranks"
Russian businessman Alexy Zborovskiy, who is keen to see Russia host a Grand Prix in the future, supports Zlobin.
His next test will be at the end of August.
Filed by Eilish Barry
