CHRISTIJAN Albers has confirmed he will drive for the Spyker Formula 1 team during the 2007 season as they look to complete their driver line-up ahead of next year.

The team will drive under the Spyker colours for the first time in this weekend's Chinese Grand Prix after the purchase of the Silverstone-based Midland team was completed earlier in the month and Albers' confirmation adds to the growing buzz around the set-up.

Spyker have already signed Mike Gascoigne as chief designer after he left Toyota earlier this year, and the Englishman's arrival was central to Albers' decision to remain with the team.

"Obviously I am delighted with the new ownership and their commitment to the technical development of the team with the arrival of Mike Gascoigne and the new engine package which will be announced shortly," he said.

"We already have the basis of a great team that is highly motivated and I'm really excited about next year."

Albers' signing means he becomes the first driver from Holland to join a Dutch-backed Formula 1 team and Spyker director Michiel Mol was happy the deal has been concluded.

"Naturally as a Dutch team we are delighted and proud to have a Dutch driver," he said.

"Christijan has definitely earned his place in the team with some stirring performances which have more than justified the faith both I and his other sponsors have had in him during his career.