Formula One 2006

Scott Speed Torro Rosso, 23 yrs

Scott carries the future of the sport in the US on his shoulders. The last time an American driver attempted to compete in the pinnacle of motorsports was 1993. Michael Andretti, who refused to adapt to the European F1 lifestyle, failed miserably. Speed will have several things going for him that Michael did not: a year of F1-like competition in GP2, a teammate who isn8217;t Ayrton Senna, and the fact that he8217;s beginning his career with a low-profile team rather than a top-line team.

Yuji Ide Super Aguri, 34 yrs

Pretty much an unknown figure in F1, but the Japanese arrives in the sport with some impressive results from Formula Nippon. Ide will face the same struggles as Sato early on in the year in trying to make an old 2002 car competitive. Just how he fares is anyone8217;s guess, but the team could have a lot of fixing cars on their hands if recent comment that he wants to copy his idol Sato8217;s aggressive style is anything to go by.

Nico Rosberg Williams, 20 yrs

The Rosberg name is back in a Williams, and Nico has every chance of being as quick as his title-winning father. An impressive GP2 campaign last season, coupled with dedication and application in testing for Williams earned him the drive. Interestingly, the youngest driver to take the grid is also the highest-ranking scorer of all time in an aptitude test all Williams drivers take.

DID YOU KNOW?

The grid this year will have six new constructors lined up: Midland F1 formerly Jordan; Williams BMW-Williams; Torro Rosso Minardi F1; Honda BAR-Honda; BMW-Sauber Sauber and newcomers Super Aguri.

8212; Micky Aigner