British hopeful Ralph Firman is to be given a Formula One chance this winter when he tests for British American Racing.

The 27-year-old, who is the reigning champion of the Japanese Formula Nippon series, has been knocking on the door of F1 for some time without getting a break.

Firman is to drive the team's 2002 car at a test in Barcelona on 15 December.

Team boss David Richards said: "We congratulate Ralph on his success this year and are delighted to offer him a Formula One test.

"As Japan's top series, Formula Nippon is widely recognised as one of the best proving grounds for future talent."

Firman moved to Japan in 1997 after failing to get a break in Europe despite winning the British Formula Three Championship and Macau F3 Grand Prix in 1996.