A1GP news

Martin to replace Dyk at A1 Team Australia

John Martin is to race for A1 Team Australia for the rest of the 2007/08 season, the team has confirmed today. Martin, who has been the team's rookie so far this season, will replace Ian Dyk.

The team had previously announced that Dyk would be Australia's main driver for the entire campaign, including its home race in Eastern Creek on 3 February, however, disappointing results have now led to Dyk moving aside and Martin being given his chance.

Australia currently lies 17th in the championship standings, having only scored two points this season, finishing ninth in Sepang's Feature race.

Alan Jones, A1 Team Australia seat holder said: 'Putting John in the driver's seat will be an exciting boost after what has been a slow start to the season for A1 Team Australia. John is a great new talent that brings great skill, drive and enthusiasm to the team and we look forward to seeing him deliver some great results on the track. 'The decision for Ian to step down from the team was a difficult one, however we would like to thank Ian for all his work over the last two seasons and together wish him the best for his career.'

Jones had admitted in an A1GP.com interview before Christmas that Martin's rookie performances were putting Dyk under pressure.

It is quite a story for Martin, whose only A1GP track time so far has been confined to three Friday morning rookie sessions and a morning at Silverstone in official pre-season testing.

The 23-year-old from Rockhampton, Northern Queensland impressed in his first rookie outing in Brno with the fourth fastest time overall, beating many more seasoned runners.

He wasn't even supposed to compete in the rookie session at the next round in Malaysia, but the unavailability of first choice Daniel Riccardo meant he was called up at the eleventh hour and once again impressed.

Dyk was then put under serious pressure in Zhuhai, China, when in Friday practice, Martin recorded a faster lap time than Dyk's subsequent free practice time, despite Martin having unfavourable tyres and track conditions, and losing track time by having to run a new engine in. 'Ian is a top guy and a great ambassador for the team,' Martin said. 'I have learnt a lot from him and wish him well for his future. I now have the job to bring our team up the ladder fast to get us some points well before Brands.'

Martin will still be eligible to take part in the Friday morning rookie sessions until Shanghai, when the team will have to look to appointing a new rookie.

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