Soucek hopes to learn a lot at Virgin

Andy Soucek admits he's still in dreamland after securing the Virgin Racing reserve seat for the 2010 season.

The 24-year-old Spaniard takes over from Alvaro Parente who lost the role after his sponsorship deal fell through.

Soucek, the current Formula Two Champion, concedes it will be difficult, but says he's ready for the challenge.

"It feels great," he said during an interview with the Formula 2 website. "I couldn't quite believe it even as I was signing the contract. To have joined a Formula 1 team and knowing that I could be competing in Grands Prix if I am required is a fantastic feeling. It will be a difficult job, but I know that I will learn a lot in preparation for racing in F1.

"One of the key aspects that excited me about this project is that I will be heavily involved with the team from the outset. I will get to use the simulator, I will be at every test and Grand Prix, and I will be in every meeting between the drivers and engineers, so I will be a real member of the team."

Virgin will be in action during the final pre-season test of the season in Barcelona this week, but Soucek admits he's not sure if he'll get behind the wheel of the VR-01.

"I am not 100% sure yet but it will be very soon," he said. "I will be with the team in Barcelona later this week and I cannot wait to get my first experience in the car. Having previously tested with Toyota and more recently with Williams it will be fantastic to drive another Formula 1 car.

"I am excited to see and feel how the car behaves and then hopefully I will be able to assist the team in developing the car further. Coming into a team that is new on the grid is very exciting as you really feel that you can make a difference."

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