British American Racing today confirmed that Mika Salo will drive the team’s 555 World Racing entry in the upcoming San Marino Grand Prix at Imola, on May 2. The highly experienced 32-year-old Finn, who has previously driven for the Lotus, Tyrrell and Arrows teams in Formula One, will stand in for regular driver, Ricardo Zonta, who suffered a cut tendon in his left foot during a high-speed crash at the Interlagos circuit, in Brazil, just over two weeks ago. The Brazilian star is recovering well from his injury, but medical advisors recommended that he avoid putting any undue strain on his foot for the next few days to ensure the rapid recovery continues at its present rate. The Imola circuit is notably bumpy in places, with chicanes that call for heavy braking, and it was felt the combination could aggravate Zonta’s injury.

"It is a great shame that Ricardo will not be able to drive for us at Imola, and obviously a big disappointment for him personally," commented British American Racing Managing Director, Craig Pollock. "He agrees though, that the quickest way back into the cockpit is to allow his foot adequate time to heal fully and not rush his return. In that respect, he will be guided by the advice of his doctors.

"In the meantime, we're pleased to have secured the services of Mika Salo for Imola. He's a quick driver and has current Formula One experience. There’s the added bonus that he and Jacques (Villeneuve) are good friends and will undoubtedly work well together."

Salo drove the British American Racing-Supertec 01 for the first time during a major Formula One test at the Jerez circuit, Southern Spain, last week and expressed his positive feelings towards the car.

"It was great to be back behind the wheel of a Formula One car again, and I was quite surprised to see how quickly I got down to competitive lap times. That is usually the sign of a good package. I'm sorry that Ricardo won't be able to drive at Imola, but speaking purely personally, I am very pleased to be able to step in to what I am sure is a competitive car. My job now is to make the most of the opportunity and do the best I can for British American Racing at Imola. It should be fun. I’m looking forward to it."

Salo's best Formula One result to date came in the 1998 Monaco Grand Prix, when he finished fourth for Arrows.