Jordan's line-up may depend on sponsors

Tuesday 13 January 2004 20:00 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Jordan, the only team in Formula One yet to name its drivers for the 2004 season, is close to announcing its line-up.

Jos Verstappen and Nick Heidfeld were the latest candidates to be interviewed by the team director, Eddie Jordan.

Jordan is widely reported to be holding out for drivers who can bring substantial sponsorship deals to the cash-strapped team. Verstappen drove for Minardi last season and the Dutchman is reported ready to bring about £10m to the team. Heidfeld, a German, drove last season for the Swiss-based Sauber team and was called "a prime candidate" by Eddie Jordan.

The British drivers Allan McNish and Ralph Firman are also among names being mentioned, particularly if the British-based team opts for a local driver to satisfy its sponsor, Benson & Hedges.Helen Temple, a spokesman for Jordan, said the team needed to name at least a test driver by 20 January, the first day of testing in Barcelona.

"It may not be the same driver that races for us, but it could be," Temple added. "I don't think you could say that any driver was our No 1 choice. Verstappen came in yesterday to have a meeting with Eddie. We're also talking very closely with Nick Heidfeld."

The top four Formula One teams will have unchanged line-ups when the season begins on 7 March in Australia.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in