Xandi Negrao will get his maiden run in a ChampCar after Rocketsports confirmed he will test for them at Houston.

The 22-year-old Brazilian, who has raced in GP2 for the past three years, is now looking for a switch to the championship next year already.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for me," said Negrão. "I would like to thank Paul Gentilozzi and the Rocketsports Racing team for inviting me to come out and test their Champ Car.

"I look forward to getting behind the wheel and seeing what I can do. My passion is driving fast cars, and this gives me a great chance to try out a new race car. This will definitely enhance my overall experience as a driver and possibly open up opportunities for the future."

Negrao, who won the South American Formula Three title in 2004, has endured a difficult three years in GP2 - all of them with the Piquet team in it's various guises.

His best race finish was second in the Istanbul Park sprint race this year, but 2006 was his most successful season, a year in which he ended the championship in 13th place overall.

Jamie O'Leary / Eurosport