Alex Wurz claims he is returning to his 'natural habitat' after claiming a surprise return to racing with Williams next season.
The Austrian, whose racing career appeared to have fizzled put at Benetton several seasons ago, will replace Mark Webber at Williams next season.
Australian Webber has performed well this season - including twice being denied podiums due to reliability problems - but it is believed Williams could not afford to retain him.
That has given test driver Wurz an unexpected chance next season and he is keen to grasp the opportunity.
He said: 'My natural habitat is racing, so I couldn't be happier to have received Williams' vote of confidence for this job next season.
'Of course I know the team well having been a part of the race programme at every grand prix this season, but now my role takes on additional responsibility and I am really looking forward to this.'
