Pantano has completed F1's initial line-up for 2004

The 25-year-old will partner Germany's Nick Heidfeld, completing the 20-driver championship line-up only three weeks before the first Grand Prix on 7 March.

Pantano's appointment came after Dutch driver Jos Verstappen ended his talks with the Silverstone-based team.

And it left Briton Ralph Firman, who raced for Jordan last year, without a drive for the new season.

Firman said he would be looking for a drive in either the US-based Indy Racing League or the German DTM touring car championship.

"I am concentrating my efforts on a new category of racing," the 28-year-old said in a statement.

"While my first choice would be to race in a highly competitive single-seater series such as Champcar or IRL (Indy Racing League) in America I am also fascinated to race in DTM because of the sophistication of the cars."

Compatriot Allan McNish was also linked with the Jordan seat before opting for a return to sportscars with Audi.

I will be giving my all as I really want to guarantee Jordan good results Giorgio Pantano

Team boss Eddie Jordan said he was confident Pantano would prove himself this season.

"Giorgio performed with accomplished racecraft at the front of the field for three years in F3000 and he's ready for the challenge in F1," said Jordan in a statement.

"In Jordan-Ford's driver pairing I believe we have the best possible combination of youth, experience and natural ability.

"Giorgio and Nick are seriously quick, skilled and hungry for success, which is exactly what we need to rejuvenate the team and lead Jordan's fight-back in 2004. I can't wait for the first race."

Pantano said: "I will be giving my all as I really want to guarantee them good results.

"I'm looking forward to driving the car some more in the test sessions, and then of course, I am really excited about my first Grand Prix in Melbourne in just a few weeks' time."