Henry Surtees has been told by his father that having a famous name will count for nothing when the teenager competes in this season's revived international Formula Two championship.

John Surtees, who at the age of 75 remains the only man to have won world championships on two wheels and four, said: "The name will be of no use to Henry if he is no good. It may open a door, but if he is not good enough to go through it, that door will slam shut."

Surtees Jnr and fellow 18-year-old, Alex Brundle, son of former Grand Prix driver and now television commentator Martin Brundle, are among five British drivers who will contest the new series in identical single-seaters made by the Williams Formula One team.

John Surtees, F1 world champion with Ferrari in 1964 and also victorious in F2, went on to manage the team that steered the late Mike Hailwood to the F2 title in 1972.

His son, already a race winner in the British Formula Renault and F3 championships, said: "We still have an old F2 car at home which has been restored. It played a big part in my father's life. Hopefully, this will be the start of another chapter in the family history."

Sir Frank Williams was present at Brands Hatch yesterday for the unveiling of the new F2 machine. He said: "With 450 horsepower, this is a racer that will demand respect and skill. We will certainly see who are the best young drivers."

The winner of the F2 series, which ceased in 1984, will earn a test drive with Williams. Brands Hatch will host Britain's round of the title chase on 18/19 July.