Fisichella talking to Sauber

Giancarlo Fisichella has recently visited the Sauber factory at Hinwil in Switzerland for informal discussions with the team. The Italian is unhappy with the performance of the Jordan and is hoping to move on in 2004. Both current Sauber drivers ...

Giancarlo Fisichella has recently visited the Sauber factory at Hinwil in Switzerland for informal discussions with the team. The Italian is unhappy with the performance of the Jordan and is hoping to move on in 2004. Both current Sauber drivers Nick Heidfeld and Heinz-Harald Frentzen's contracts expire at the end of 2003.

Giancarlo Fisichella.

Photo by Brousseau Photo.

"Giancarlo did come to the factory," said a Sauber spokesperson, according to ITV-F1. "It was for informal discussions and he also had a look around. Both our drivers' contacts run out at the end of the season and they are free to talk to teams and Peter Sauber is also looking at his options. That is just normal process."

Fisichella's contract with Jordan runs until 2005 but he has an opt-out clause; Eddie Jordan has also been in talks with other teams regarding Giancarlo's future. One possible reason for a move to Sauber could be the Swiss team's link with Ferrari; Fisichella has made no secret of his desire to drive for the Scuderia.

This week Minardi boss Paul Stoddart told the press that Justin Wilson would be moving on next year. No deal has been signed but Jaguar is thought to be his destination. However, Wilson has previously tested for Jordan and it's not impossible he may head there instead. The lanky Brit has also been linked with BAR.

Silly season generally kicks off in earnest after the British Grand Prix, so expect the rumour mill to go into overdrive in the near future.