AUGUST 8, 2003

Former Jaguar test driver Courtney fighting back

James Courtney, once seen as a great white hope in Formula 1, disappeared off to Japan this year to compete in the local Formula 3 Championship with the TOM'S Toyota Team. Courtney has now been offered a drive in Formula Nippon with Team 5-Zigen, one of the leading contenders. He will replace Ryo Fukuda in the four remaining events at Fuji, Mine, Motegi and Suzuka. The Australian will continue to race in Formula 3 as well and Courtney says that winning that title is still his priority. He is currently well ahead in the Formula 3 championship, having won seven of the 12 races. His chief opponent is Italy's Paolo Montin, who has won three races.

"I'm really looking forward to doing this," Courtney said. "It will also give me the opportunity of putting my marker down for 2004."