AUGUST 2, 2002

Cochet back on the rails

Jonathan Cochet, the former French Formula 3 Champion and one-time Prost Grand Prix test driver, has been trying to find a way to progress into Formula 1 since the demise of Prost and has just been signed to drive for the 7-Up GD Racing Team in the Telefonica World Series by Nissan championship, which is based in Spain. The championship has in recent years become the refuge for a number of F1 hopefuls and the series is being led this year by former BAR driver Ricardo Zonta, who is ahead of former F3000 racers Bas Leinders, Franck Montagny and Justin Wilson.

Cochet's new chance comes at the expense of Spain's Rafael Sarandeses, who has not produced the results which had been hoped for this year. Cochet will partner Mexico's Roberto Gonzalez. Cochet is due to test for the team before the next race at Magny-Cours at the end of August. Cochet is not new to the series having raced last year for the Venturini Racing.