Former Formula One driver, Giorgio Pantano who drove for Jordan F1 in 2004, was announced today as the official International Formula Master development driver.

After seeing the Formula S2000 race car, which was unveiled at the Autosport International Show yesterday and will run a 250bhp engine at just 550kg weight including driver, the 27-year-old Italian couldn’t turn the opportunity down.

“This car is going to be incredible. With a weight to power ratio like that, it is going to be a real pleasure to drive,” said Pantano. “I have worked on developing cars before but this is the first time that I’ve been involved from the start and am really looking forward to the challenge.”

The Italian brings a wealth of experience to the series. Having spent his former years in kart racing where he won three junior World Championships and two European titles, Pantano went on to compete in Formula Palmer Audi Winter Series, Formula 3 and F3000, prior to his Formula One debut. He has spend the last two years in GP2 with team Super Nova and FMS International, winning three races last season.

“Obviously with a project like this, it was essential to have a driver on-board who has extensive experience in single-seater racing,” said Series Director, Mauro Sipsz who was directly involved in Pantano’s appointment and confirmed his appreciation of the Italian’s career achievements.  

“Not only does Giorgio fit the brief, he also brings tremendous technical knowledge to help us develop the S2000.”

Giorgio’s official duties will begin this month when N.Technology, the series founder, will test the car for the first time at Vallelunga race circuit in Italy.

International Formula Master's first official race will be held in Valencia, Spain on May 20 as part of the FIA World Touring Car Championship package.