McNish comments on Montagny appointment

After the announcement that Renault have appointed Franck Montagny as its official third driver for 2004, current test driver Allan McNish said he had enjoyed this season working with the team. The Scot, who has been linked with a move to Jordan in the rumour mill recently, was cagey about his future and said only that he was considering his options.

"I've had a fantastic year with Renault F1 and would like to extend my thanks to all the team for their hard work and support during the thousands of miles I've completed this season testing the R23," said McNish in a statement.

"I'm obviously disappointed that I won't be with the team next year, particularly having seen the results of all our hard work with Fernando's first win in Hungary, but I wish Alonso, Jarno, Franck, Flavio and the whole team the very best of luck for the future."

"I am in the fortunate position of having a number of options open to me and my management team and I are assessing which path to take at the moment. I don't want to rush into anything but I am more determined than ever to succeed, and ultimately I will make the choice that gives me the best chance of success."

McNish debuted in F1 with Toyota last year but the team opted for two new drivers in 2003. Apart from Jordan, seats are still available at Minardi, Sauber, BAR and Jaguar for 2004. Whether McNish will make a return to competition is yet to be seen but it wouldn't be a big surprise.