Arden signs Wirdheim.

Arden International has confirmed that Bj?rn Wirdheim will partner Tomas Enge in this years FIA International F3000 Championship, replacing team favourite Viktor Maslov in the Anglo-Russian team's line-up.

Wirdheim joins Arden after a successful Formula Three career, which recently included pole position at the Macau Grand Prix and third place finish, and provides the team with the perfect blend of youth and experience, following Enge's long career in F3000.

The Swede's first test with the team will be next Wednesday and Thursday at Estoril.

"I am delighted with the chance to join the Arden Team," Wirdheim said, "With an experienced team mate such as Tomas, I have the perfect benchmark and feel confident for the season ahead. I can't wait to drive the car for the first time in Estoril."

Maslov will apparently continue to be involved with Arden, but will now focus on a sportscar programme for 2003, having failed to shine in the Formula One support series.

"Bj?rn's signing is the perfect scenario for us," commented Arden team boss Christian Horner, "This year it was my priority to have two top class drivers and, in Bj?rn and Tomas, I truly believe we have achieved this.

"Lack of inter-team rivalry has been the weakest part of our team over the last couple of seasons, and I feel confident that this signing provides the missing piece. Bj?rn has a lot to learn, but he certainly has the pace and with a firm two year contract in place I believe he will be a star of the future."