SEPTEMBER 3, 2002

The future of Jos Verstappen

Jos Verstappen was kicking around the paddock in Spa and there were lots of rumours of talks with a variety of different teams. The reality is that Verstappen does not have many choices. Arrows will either disappear or be born again in an American form - the most recent suggestions are that Red Bull money could be involved if the team survives and Jaguar Racing does not do a deal with the Austrian drinks firm. But this is a long shot.

Toyota is a nice idea but it is almost certain now that the second drive alongside Olivier Panis will go to Cristiano da Matta from CART. The only other names being seriously mentioned in connection with the drive are Antonio Pizzonia and Felipe Massa.

Jaguar has a slot, in theory at least, but much depends on what happens with the Ford Motor Company and if a drive at Jaguar comes up it will probably be offered first to Mark Webber.

And that leaves Minardi. The team is interested in Jos but much depends on the engine deal that is done because Verstappen does not want to get into a situation where he cannot show well. The team would like a driver of experience and Jos fits the bill and has worked with many of the team memebrs at Tyrrell and later at Honda Racing Developments.

For the moment at least this seems to be Jos's best option although Minardi is currently beseiged by drivers wanting work in 2002 as F1 drives are in short supply and there are some good drivers with money available on the market.