A host of motorsport stars will be on hand for the first testing session of the new Speedcar Series this wee including former Formula One drivers Johnny Herbert, Gianni Morbidelli and Stefan Johansson, who will all join Jean Alesi at the Virginia International Raceway, USA, on Monday and Tuesday (March 5th and 6th), to sample three 600bhp cars that will be used in the Speedcar Series, which begins next autumn across Asia and Middle East.

"It is a very exciting new series and I am delighted to be part of it,” Johnny Herbert said. “The competition with the top class drivers will for sure be very fierce, and together we will have some fantastic battles on the race track. I can't wait for the racing to start."

They will also be joined by American stock car driver Mike Bliss, who does not plan to race in the new series, but support the first part of the programme as a test driver.

Last week, Alesi was confirmed as the first driver taking part in the inaugural championship, which features 24 identical cars competing on tracks in Asia and the Middle East.

"I am very enthusiastic about the project,” added Gianni Morbidelli. “The car looks very aggressive and racy! 24 identical cars will leave a lot of room for the drivers to make the difference. With such a line up, I expect a very close fight. It is back to racing!"

"I have been eagerly anticipating this test! The level of competition and the quality of the cars and engines in the series is amongst the best in the sport. I am impressed by the scope of the pre test preparation which includes close to 60 people covering every aspect of the business," Stefan Johansson added.