Minardi lining up Wilson

Minardi is hoping to accommodate the six foot three frame of Justin Wilson as team boss Paul Stoddart believes the British driver is a future winner. Wilson tried out for Minardi this season when Alex Yoong was sidelined for two races but his height proved a disadvantage. Unable to fit comfortably into the car, Wilson lost out to BAR test driver Anthony Davidson.

Stoddart wants to give Wilson a chance but only if his height can properly be catered to: "I really believe Justin will be the star of 2003 and is a future race winner," Stoddart said in the British press. "His whole career has been leading up to this and I know he really wants the drive."

"But I need to know now that he isn't just cramming himself into the car and will be crippled with agony after a few racing laps. It will be too late to find that out 10 laps into the first grand prix in Melbourne. However it would be totally wrong for this guy, who has been champion in Palmer Audi and in F3000, to be denied a chance in Formula One because of his size."

Wilson is due to visit Minardi's factory in Faenza for a seat fitting but the team's driver line up for 2003 has been the subject of much speculation. Stoddart is keen on Jos Verstappen but the Dutchman is reportedly waiting for confirmation that Minardi has a deal with engine supplier Cosworth. Former Minardi driver Mark Webber has moved to Jaguar for 2003 while Yoong looks to be heading for America and the CART series.