Panis joins A1 Team France

Former Formula One race winner Olivier Panis will join A1 Team France this season. Panis is one of France's most well-known racing drivers. He retired from racing at the end of 2005 after 157 Grands Prix.

He will joining the French squad in an advisory capacity, and work directly with seat holder Jean-Paul Driot at several races in the 2007/08 season.

It was announced to the local media that he was joining the team at a special season launch at the Hotel de Crillon on Place de la Concorde in Paris.

A1 Team France general manager Eric Boullier said: 'It is great to have someone like Oliver joining the team. I know his expertise and knowledge can play a vital role in helping A1 Team France recapture the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport title.'