Jordan announces test schedule

Jordan has announced its winter test schedule in the run up to the first race of the 2004 season, starting on the 20th January at Barcelona in Spain. The four day test will probably see the last outing of the EJ13 chassis as the new EJ14 is due to take over at the next session, fourth and fifth of February at Silverstone.

A three-day test will follow at Jerez, from the 10th to 13th of February, then another at Imola from the 17th to 19th. This will be followed by two days at Vairano, 20th and 21st. The team's final test will take place at Silverstone on 25th February, just ten days before the Australian Grand Prix on March 7th.

Drivers for the tests have not been announced as yet; the Dutch media seems convinced Jos Verstappen has already signed a deal with Jordan, which will reportedly be announced on Monday.

Nick Heidfeld, Allan McNish and Ralph Firman are the other most likely names, with McNish perhaps having the edge as Jordan sponsor Benson and Hedges is keen on a British driver and the Scot is the most experienced between him and Firman. Heidfeld has already tested for Jordan and has a preliminary agreement in place but finances will be the decider.