Honda Racing F1 have confirmed that Anthony Davidson will continue as the team's third driver next season. The 26-year-old, who has been with the team since 2001, decided to stay despite interest from Jordan, BMW and the new Super Aguri team.
"My decision to remain with Honda is the right one, for sure," he said.
"Although I would prefer to be in a race seat in 2006, I am in the best possible position to work towards achieving that goal."
Davidson was released by Honda for a one-day test with Jordan at Silverstone last September.
He has been in Formula One for five years but has made just three starts.
His role in 2006 will include the vital testing role at each grand prix as well as testing duties throughout the year.
"I'm really looking forward to starting the 2006 season with the team in its new guise as the Honda Racing F1 Team," Davidson added.
"I have enjoyed five years with the team during which time I have made a positive contribution to its development.
"They are committed to F1 for the long-term and absolutely focused on winning the world championship."
Davidson will also be on stand-by should either of Honda's race drivers, Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello, be unavailable.
"We have said many times how important Anthony's contribution has been over the past few years to our progress and competitiveness," said Honda Racing team sporting director Gil de Ferran.
"We are delighted that he accepted our offer to remain with the team as our third driver for 2006.
"Although we all know that Anthony aspires to be a race driver, and we are all confident that this will happen eventually, his role with us is crucial to us this season.
"In addition to regular testing duties he will also be present at each race weekend for Friday testing and to assist with tyre and set-up decisions."
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We are delighted that he accepted our offer to remain with the team as our third driver for 2006