It's not Taku. So who is it?

Gotta change my logo
By Phil Giles
December 18 2002

It was never going to have come as a shock to anyone who has followed Jordan over the last 12 months that news broke today of Takuma Sato's switch from Jordan to British American Racing.

Jordan are at pains to stress that Takuma has not been sacked.  The contract with Jordan has ended "by mutual consent" to allow the talented Japanese driver to join BAR as their "reserve" driver.  Taku will take up a test role with the team and has an option to race alongside Jenson Button in 2004 and 2005 should Jacques Villeneuve decide to move on to pastures new.

 "It's a shame that I can't race for Jordan next season, but I leave the team on good terms and I don't see testing for BAR as a step backward," Sato said. "I want to be with a team where my driving ability is the most important consideration, rather than other factors.

"2003 will give me the opportunity to assist with the development of the car, which is very important to my own development as an F1 driver. I had very little testing in the second half of 2002 and mileage is extremely important in F1, because the cars are full of technology and it takes time to find improvements."

One of  Takuma's most ardent fans expressed his thanks to the man and the Honda Development Programme.  Eddie Jordan said  "Takuma Sato has natural driving talent and a lot of bravery. We had an eventful and exciting season together this year. I have every confidence in him and I hope he will build on the ability that we saw demonstrated in Suzuka - perhaps one of the best drives of the season.  I would like to extend my thanks to Takuma and the Honda Dream programme."

So that's one down.  In our site poll, Takuma and Irvine were vying as the your favourite for the seat with 28% of the votes each.  Next came Enrique Bernoldi with 19%.  Subh was next with 16% of the vote beating Felipe Massa and Pedro de la Rosa!  

Jordan have moved to deny that a deal has been done with Eddie Irvine.  Jordan told BBC Online "We have not agreed anything with any driver regarding the number two seat at Jordan, there are a number of conversations taking place but nothing has been finalised."   It is believed by various sites around the web that Benson and Hedges will have the final vote on who takes Takuma's seat, perhaps putting up £15million to pay for the driver.

Jordan Fans Online would like to wish Takuma all the best with his new role and we look forward to seeing you back in race form in 2004.