Sato to test for STR at Jerez

(GMM) Toro Rosso is to give evaluation test drives to at least two clear candidates for a 2009 seat with the Faenza-based Formula One team.

It is already known that Sebastien Buemi, a GP2 racer, Red Bull test driver and the energy drink company's preferred successor for Sebastian Vettel, is to get his chance in the coming weeks.

The German magazine Auto Motor und Sport now reports that Takuma Sato, the popular and experienced Japanese driver who lost his seat with the Super Aguri collapse earlier this year, will also test for Ferrari-powered STR before the season is out.

The news was reportedly confirmed to the magazine by the jointly Gerhard Berger and Dietrich Mateschitz-owned team.

A final decision on the identity of Vettel's successor, and whether or not Sebastien Bourdais will also need to be replaced, is not expected to be made until October.

Auto Motor und Sport claims that teenager Buemi, and 31-year-old veteran of approaching 100 Grand Prix, Sato, will both be evaluated at the forthcoming Jerez test.