Despite stories in the British press suggesting his Formula 1 career was over, flamboyant Briton Eddie Irvine is rumoured to be confident that a chance still exists for him to drive for Jordan in 2003.
Early last week a Jordan representative insisted that the team is looking at only two drivers for the last race seat, Sauber refugee Felippe Massa and Formula Nippon champion Ralph Firman. However Irvine is thought to be working hard behind the scenes to pull a deal together after failing to comment on press reports that his deal had collapsed.
Both Massa and Firman have links to sponsors expected to bring more funds to the cash-strapped Jordan team. Massa is rumoured to have personal support from Ford of Brazil and Petrobas. Firman is thought to be favoured by current sponsor Benson & Hedges as part of their 'cash for a Brit' deal that was ironically expected to secure Irvine a race seat.
Insiders insist however that Irvine has no chance, and that Massa, Firman and Bryan Herta (as revealed by MOTORSPORTFORUM earlier this month) are the favourites to land the coveted last seat in F1. Herta also comes with the promise of extra funding by way of energy drinks giant Red Bull.
It is expected that Jordan will make an announcement on their second race driver within the next ten days.
Back to F1 News Page
Back to Main Page
© 2000 motorsportforum@yahoo.co.uk