Williams have announced that GP2 champion Pastor Maldonado will replace Nico Hulkenberg for the 2011 Formula One season.
GP2 champion replaces Hulkenberg for 2011 season
Williams have announced that GP2 champion Pastor Maldonado will replace Nico Hulkenberg for the 2011 Formula One season.
The 25-year-old recently Venezuelan drove for Williams in the young driver test in Abu Dhabi and has now been confirmed as a full-time race driver alongside Rubens Barrichello.
Hulkenberg, who won the GP2 title the year before Maldonado, was dropped by the team despite a promising first season that included a pole position in Brazil.
Maldonado becomes the second Venezuelan to compete in Formula One after Johnny Cecotto, who started 18 grands prix in 1983-84.
"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," Maldonado said.
Privileged
He added: "I feel very privileged Williams have selected me as one of their race drivers. It is a great way to end what has already been an amazing year for me.
"I can't wait to start working with everyone properly to be in the best possible shape going into next year."
Team boss Frank Williams says he has been monitoring Maldonado since watching him win at Monaco during his first year in GP2.
"Pastor first caught my eye in 2007 when he drove a masterful race (to win) at Monaco. Since then he has regularly reminded us of his unquestionable talent with some skilful wins particularly during this year's GP2 championship," Williams said.
"We are very much looking forward to developing his talent over the winter and a fruitful season with him next year."
Maldonado will form an all-South American driver partnership at Williams alongside Brazilian veteran Rubens Barrichello.
