Wilson will race at Jag for the remainder of 2003
By steve
July 24 2003
22/7/03 Jaguar Racing have today confirmed that Justin Wilson will join the team, replacing ex-BMW WilliamsF1 test driver, Antonio Pizzonia as the teams number two race driver.
It seems that Jaguar has taken Wilson up on an offer he made in May . In a statement released by the Milton Keynes based team, the team noted:
"To the great regret of Jaguar Racing, Antonio Pizzonia has not been able to realise his potential with the team over the past eleven races. Jaguar Racing therefore has decided that it is neither in his best interests, nor in the team's, for Antonio to continue to driving as full time race driver at this time.
"In an effort to continue supporting Antonio's development, however, Jaguar Racing has offered him the opportunity to remain with the team as reserve and test driver.
"Agreement has been reached with Minardi F1 to allow Justin Wilson . to complete the 2003 season with Jaguar Racing. This is an agreement for the remainder of the 2003 season only, with options for future years that provide Jaguar Racing with additional choices for 2004."
David Pitchforth, Jaguar's managing director had this to say: "We are delighted to have Justin join us for the remainder of the 2003 season in what is a richly deserved opportunity. In the Jaguar R4, we clearly have a competitive car and one that has helped Mark Webber secure twelve points thereby taking the team to sixth place in the Constructor's Championship. With five races left on the calendar, it is critical that we are maximising our potential with two race cars."
Justin Wilson is understandably stoked to be in this situation, after only half a season in formula one he’s already moving on to bigger and better things. Wilson has looked very impressive, particularly his starts and early race dices with drivers in superior machinery.
"This is fantastic news and a simply brilliant opportunity for me. Jaguar has been really impressive this year and made a big step forward over the winter. As Mark has proven, this is a team that can score world championship points - and I'm determined to do just that."
"I am immensely grateful to my Minardi boss, Paul Stoddart, for having enough confidence in me to give me the drive this year and for doing an amazing job on so little money," he said, "He gave me the opportunity to learn about Formula One - and to make this move to Jaguar."
"I can't wait to get in the car at Hockenheim. Of course, it's not going to be easy jumping straight in, but I'm absolutely determined to reward the team's confidence in me."
Paul Stoddart had the following comments about losing one of their two very good drivers "It's a case of mixed feelings when it comes to Justin's departure from Minardi. We are obviously sad to lose him, but pleased - and proud - that he has been able to demonstrate his undoubted driving talent at Minardi. A move to Jaguar Racing gives him the opportunity to develop his talent further and, at the same time, benefits Minardi enormously, as it helps to assure the team's future in Formula One.
"Like Fernando [Alonso] and Mark [Webber] before him, Justin is now clearly on his way, and this also clearly illustrates one of the invaluable roles that the smaller, independent teams fulfil in this sport - the ability to give young drivers the opportunity to showcase their talent and establish themselves as grand prix stars of the future."
With Pizzonia offered a position as reserve and test driver, one wonders what will happen with Anthony Davidsons link to Jaguar - announced just 2 weeks ago.