SEPTEMBER 20, 2002

Frentzen confirmed for Indy

Sauber has confirmed that Heinz-Harald Frentzen will drive for the team during the upcoming USGP in Indianapolis. After testing the C21 at Silverstone Thursday, and proving he can be competitive in the relatively small chassis, it was decided that Frentzen will replace Felipe Massa for the US round of the championship to help the team in it's quest to defend its fourth place in the constructors championship.

If Massa were to compete in the US, he would be penalized ten grid positions for an accident he had with Pedro De la Rosa at Monza last weekend, and would significantly impair the team's chances of scoring points.

"The test in Silverstone made it clear to me that the C21 is an excellent race car," said Frentzen. "I was able to familiarize myself with its handling as well as with the electronic systems. The seating position is still a compromise, and we will try to improve it further prior to the US Grand Prix. I'm very happy that I can drive a race for Sauber Petronas at this early stage, and I will give my utmost to support the team in its battle against very strong competitors."

Massa's penalty is only for the US round, so the Brazilian will return to competition for the last round of the championship at Suzuka on October 13th.