Albers fails in Minardi bid

Christijan Albers has been forced to give up hope of securing a Formula One drive this year after talks between his sponsors and Minardi collapsed. The Dutchman had a provisional agreement with Minardi to partner Englishman Justin Wilson this season if he could raise sufficient sponsorship money.

However, despite recruiting several backers, talks with Minardi head Paul Stoddart have broken down, meaning Albers is now set to drive in German touring cars this year.

He said: "Formula One remains the ultimate goal for me so I do not give up my hopes. I know I can make it. My sponsors made a fantastic offer to Paul, which he unfortunately could not accept. Fortunately there is still a lot to win for me with Mercedes in DTM and since I am only 23 there is enough time to become a Formula One driver.

"I still hope I can start my career with Paul Stoddart and Minardi. I really like the team and hope they get stronger soon."