Massa heading to Jordan?

Felipe Massa has confirmed he is in negotiations with Jordan for a drive next year, saying that discussions are under way. Massa was ousted from Sauber in favour of the more seasoned Heinz-Harald Frentzen for 2003 but the Brazilian is working hard to secure a drive for next year. However, it is not yet known if Massa is in line for a race seat or a testing role.

"It's all decided. Eddie Jordan wants me in his team," Massa told the Italian press. "I am very confident about the 2003 season. I am focusing on F1 racing 100 per cent. Should I not get a racing contract, I will sign on with one of the top teams as their test driver."

Rumours have been circulating that Massa may replace Luciano Burti as test driver for Ferrari should a race seat with another team be unforthcoming. Ferrari is speculated to have a long term interest in Massa but, as usual, there is no comment from the interested parties.

Ex-Jaguar driver Eddie Irvine is also thought to be in line for a drive at Jordan, more so now that the team has lost Deutsche Post as a sponsor. Other sponsor Benson and Hedges are reportedly keen to have a British driver on board. 2002 Jordan driver Takuma Sato has strong ties with engine supplier Honda and now that the team has parted company with Honda, Sato's future is uncertain.

Team boss Eddie Jordan has said that he will keep Sato if Japan will put some financial backing behind its F1 star but it remains to be seen if that will happen. Massa also has the option of a testing role with Sauber but the fiery young one will presumably not be content with being a test driver.

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