The 25-year-old from Curitiba returns to Formula One after two seasons racing in the mainly United States-based Champ Car (CART) series for the Penske and Swift teams.

"I am very pleased to be returning to Formula One, particularly because it is with European Minardi," said Marques, who made his debut in his home race.

"I know many of the people here from my races with the team in 1996 and 1997, so it is a little like coming home.

"At the same time, there is also a different feeling at the factory since the team now has a new owner, Paul Stoddart.

"There is a lot happening, and it all seems very exciting so I think this is a good place to be.

"I am really looking forward to driving in the world championship again and helping the team to be as competitive as possible."

Stoddart, the British-based Australian businessman who bought the Italian-based outfit last month, has whittled his choice of second driver down to a short-list of five.

"After considerable deliberation on the issue of European Minardi’s second driver, we have decided that Tarso best fulfils our requirement to have a pair of young drivers one preferably with Formula One experience," said Stoddart.

"There is the added benefit that he has driven for Minardi in the recent past and therefore knows the team well.

"I think he and Fernando will form a strong driver pairing, so I’m very pleased with our 2001 line-up."

Minardi were set to put their 2001 car through a trial run at the small Vairano track near their Italian headquarters in Faenza today before they are packed off for the flight to Melbourne.

It means Marques, whose best finish was 10th place at the British Grand Prix in 1997, will have next to no time in the car before the season gets under way.