Jordan driver talks continuing

Jordan is the only team yet to finalise a driver line up for 2004 but is moving closer to a decision. The team announced its winter test schedule last week without naming which drivers would be behind the wheel, but currently it seems Jos Verstappen and Nick Heidfeld are the favourites.

Ex-Minardi and Arrows man Verstappen has been in discussions with Jordan for some times and recently visited the team headquarters. The Dutchman has healthy sponsor backing, which is something Jordan desperately needs.

Former Sauber driver Heidfeld has already tested for Jordan and has a preliminary contract with the team. However, Jordan sponsor Benson and Hedges is keen to have a British driver on board, which could put Allan McNish and Ralph Firman in the running.

"I don't think you could say that any driver was our number one choice but there are a couple of drivers we've been talking to more recently," said a team spokeswoman.

"Verstappen came in on Monday to have a meeting with Eddie and those discussions will be continuing in the coming days. We're also talking very closely with Nick Heidfeld."