Van Hooydonk tests for Midland

Midland will hand Belgian driver Jeffrey van Hooydonk a Formula One test next month. Ex-Formula 3000 driver Van Hooydonk, 28, spent last season racing French touring cars but has been given a chance to show what he can do behind the wheel of a grand prix car when he tests a Midland at Jerez in Spain on December 8.

Jeffrey van Hooydonk "I expect it to be a hard but exciting day. I am very excited to be given this opportunity, especially as many Belgian fans are eagerly awaiting another Belgian driver in Formula One. I will definitely give my best and then have to wait and see what the future will bring."

The Silverstone-based team are preparing for their first season under the Midland banner after Canadian businessman Alex Shnaider bought the Jordan outfit. They have already signed Christijan Albers to race next season with Tiago Monteiro expected to line up as his team-mate. Nicky Pastorelli will act as third driver.