LONDON (Oct. 7, 1996) -- Jan Magnussen signed a contract with the Stewart Formula 1 Team to compete in 1997 for the former world champion Jackie Stewart's new team.

Magnussen was rumored to be the top choice of Hogan Racing for their 1997 Indy Car World Series effort after competing for the team in the last 4 races this year, replacing the injured Emerson Fittipaldi.

Before joining Hogan this summer, Magnussen was test driver for the McLaren Formula 1 team. His talent was discovered by Stewart and others during Magnussen's outstanding Formula Three involvement.