SEPTEMBER 9, 2001
Stoddart enthuses about Malaysia
With a new power supply for 2002 from Asiatech freeing up funds to invest in the team's facilities and a major new backer in the form of Malaysian government-controlled betting organization Magnum Stoddart's recent trip to Kuala Lumpur further enthused the Australian entrepreneur towards the region.
"There's so much this country can offer Formula One and I am truly amazed at the potential available here," said Stoddart. "Right from having what can be considered as the best Formula 1 circuit in the world, Malaysia offers tremendous potential in the development of motor sport."
Magnum is close to signing up as European Minardi's title sponsor in 2003 as a result of Yoong's arrival in the team, and a deal with Proton to the party in conjunction with Asiatech is looking like a strong prospect.
"I had the opportunity to visit the Proton plant on Thursday and I was impressed with what I saw," Stoddart said. "I am looking at the possibility of working together with a Malaysian company to develop an engine for Formula One, or, more specifically, for Minardi."