Frentzen may replace Massa at USGP

Heinz-Harald Frentzen may make an early debut for Sauber as the team considers whether to replace Felipe Massa for the US Grand Prix at Indianapolis on September 29th. Frentzen signed to replace Massa at Sauber for 2003 but since the young Brazilian was given a demotion penalty at the Italian Grand Prix the situation is under review.

Massa will be demoted ten places from his qualifying position at the USGP for a clash with Jaguar's Pedro de la Rosa at Monza. Sauber think this could well lose the team valuable points in the Constructors' standings and Frentzen will test at Silverstone this week in preparation. The results of the test could see Massa replaced.

Heinz-Harald Frentzen.

Photo by Arrows Grand Prix International.

"The decision of the stewards of the meeting in Monza to relegate Felipe by ten grid positions at the Indy race forced us to think about alternatives. This verdict would be a major setback in our quest to defend our position in the Constructors' Championship."

Frentzen is looking forward to the chance to race: "I will test the Sauber-Petronas C21 for the first time in Silverstone coming Thursday," he said on his official website. "In case the results of this test will be satisfying, I could possibly drive the US Grand Prix in Indianapolis on 29 September alongside Nick Heidfeld."

"I visited the Hinwil factory on Tuesday for a seat fitting. Now the test in Silverstone will finally show, whether I will be able to drive competitively in this seating position. All further decisions will depend on the outcome of the test drive, said Peter Sauber.

Peter Sauber phoned on Monday and informed me about the new situation. I would be very happy if I could already drive for Sauber-Petronas in Indianapolis."