Manor make first signing

FORMULA One newcomers Manor Motorsport have landed their first driver.

German ace Timo Glock has signed a two-year deal with the Dinnington-based team with the option for another season.

He parted company with Japanese company Toyota after their withdrawal from F1 at the end of last season.

Glock missed the final three races of 2009 after a crash in qualification for the Japanese Grand Prix but has managed to notch up two podium finishes for Toyota.

The German, who made his F1 debut in the Canadian Grand Prix in 2004, will bring some much needed experience, with 36 GP starts under his belt.

Manor technical director Nick Wirth said: "To get a driver who has not only achieved podium finishes in 2009 but has such proven talent and the potential to take us forward for many years is very exciting."

Glock added: "The team may be small and new but it has big ambitions and a very impressive car.

"Every driver has the same overall objective—to win the World Championship one day— but the way I want to succeed is to be part of the process of building a team and to play a key role in developing the car.

"I can't wait to start testing the new car early next year." 

Also in the running for a Manor seat is Brazilian rookie Lucas di Grassi.