By Phil Giles
February 13 2004

Jordan have today completed their line up for 2004 and as such, have filled the grid by signing Giorgio Pantano as Nick Heidfeld's race partner.

Giorgio becomes the third rookie driver in three years to take one of the race seats at Jordan.  Takuma Sato perhaps being the most successful so far clinching the second drive at BAR.  Pantano has recently been testing for the team during the week at Jerez and has been getting used to the car, but posting slowish times compared to the rest of the participants.

“I’m so happy." He said.  "I want to thank Eddie Jordan and everybody at Jordan Grand Prix for giving me the opportunity to be in F1 and show my ability.  I will be giving my all as I really want to guarantee them good results.  There are a lot of people I have to thank for helping me get to this position and I hope I will make them proud.  I’m looking forward to driving the car some more in the test sessions, and then of course, I am really excited about my first Grand Prix in Melbourne in just a few weeks time.”

Eddie Jordan said, “Giorgio performed consistently with accomplished racecraft at the front of the field for three years in F3000 and he’s ready for the challenge in F1.  In Jordan Ford’s driver pairing I believe we have the best possible combination of youth, experience and natural ability.  Giorgio and Nick are seriously quick, skilled and hungry for success, which is exactly what we need to rejuvenate the team and lead Jordan’s fight-back in 2004.  I can’t wait for the first race!”

Despite a late plea from Jos Verstappen, the team took the rookie over the experienced Dutchman.  Pantano's sponsorship portfolio is thought to be close to that of Verstappen's, with the Italian bringing $5m to the Silverstone based team.