This follows Wilson’s impressive showing in yesterday’s British Grand Prix at Silverstone, as well as a series of strong performances in this, his first season of Formula One competition, that have marked him out as a future star of the sport.  It is also the third time in three successive years that European Minardi has helped to launch the F1 career of an aspiring young driver, as Wilson follows in the footsteps of Fernando Alonso (2001) and Mark Webber (2002).

Copenhagen-born Kiesa, 25, has trodden the normally accepted training route for front-line single-seater racing drivers, having started out in Danish, European and World Karting Championship events, before graduating to Formula Ford, the British and German Formula Three Championships, and most recently, the FIA F3000 International Championship.  He has driven for the Den Bla Avis team this season, memorably winning the Monaco Grand Prix support race at the end of May, and was lying fifth in the Championship standings following last Saturday’s Silverstone round, where he scored another point.

“It’s a case of ‘mixed feelings’ when it comes to Justin’s departure from European Minardi,” comments Team Principal, Paul Stoddart.  “We are obviously sad to lose him, but pleased, and proud, that he has been able to demonstrate his undoubted driving talent at Minardi.  A move to Jaguar Racing gives him the opportunity to develop his talent further and, at the same time, benefits Minardi enormously, as it helps to assure the team’s future in Formula One.  Like Fernando and Mark before him, Justin is now clearly on his way.  This also clearly illustrates one of the invaluable roles that the smaller, independent teams fulfil in this sport: they are able to give young drivers the opportunity to showcase their talent and establish themselves as Grand Prix stars of the future.

“Looking ahead, we welcome Nicolas to the team.  He comes with impressive racing credentials, and all of us at European Minardi Cosworth look forward to working with him.”