Craig Pollock, Managing Director of British American Racing, today announced that Brazilian driver Ricardo Zonta has signed to drive for British American Racing in 1999. The native of Curitiba, Paranà, Brazil joins Jacques Villeneuve, the reigning Formula One World Champion, who agreed to a British American Racing team contract on July 23.

"I am delighted to have secured the services of Ricardo Zonta who, at only 22 years of age, has shown the talent and maturity of a driver of far more experience," said Pollock. "As a young, dynamic, success-oriented team, British American Racing was searching for a driver that would fit, in terms of goals and calibre, and Zonta matches the profile perfectly."

Zonta, winner of the FIA Formula 3000 International series in 1997, and winner of the 1998 FIA Grand Touring Car Championship at Laguna Seca on Sunday, has been winning races ever since his first karting race at age 11. Four years later at 15 he had captured his first championship.

At 19, Ricardo claimed the South American Formula Three championship and moved to Europe, graduating to the Formula 3000 in 1996 and finishing fourth. A year later he was champion of that class. Ricardo Zonta's signing with British American Racing is a dream-come-true for the South American driver.

"As well as racing in GT for Mercedes and winning the FIA GT1 1998 Championship title, I have completed considerable Formula One testing for McLaren-Mercedes, and I feel very motivated to succeed in Formula One," he said. "As a driver new to Formula One, I could not have asked for more than to join a new team that wants to start winning as soon as possible. I am also thrilled to be driving alongside such a successful and experienced driver as Jacques Villeneuve, from whom I am certain I will learn a great deal."

"Ability and a remarkable record of success at all levels of racing made Zonta a perfect choice for the British American Racing team", Pollock added. "We watched Ricardo win the Formula 3000 championship last year with the Super Nova team, and he didn't miss a beat when he moved up to Grand Touring Car with Mercedes.

"What impresses us most is Zonta's intelligence and willingness to take calculated risks. When the time comes to make the move, he always does, and he is smart enough to back off when the opportunity isn't quite there. That shows special maturity for a 22-year-old who wants to win.

"As well, image, personality and character are equally vital parts of a driver's make up within the Formula One racing world, both on and off the track. That includes the demonstration of special capabilities within the team context and with sponsors. This was another solid reason why we opted for Ricardo Zonta."

Zonta is expected to join the British American Racing team for testing in December.