Minardi set for double launch

According to reports in the Malaysian press, European Minardi is set to have a double launch with the 2002 car. The first launch in Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia is expected to take place in the coming weeks while the second in Australia is set for the week before the first race of next season at Albert Park. It's possible that with the Malaysian interest in the team there may be a name change ahead, switching from European Minardi to Malaysian Minardi. This has not been confirmed by the team but Malaysian Sports Minister, Datuk Hishammuddin Hussein has said that the car will carry a Malaysian image.

Alex Yoong has been confirmed as a driver for the team next year, although his name didn't appear in the official FIA entry list. It's as yet unknown who will partner Yoong. With Fernando Alonso taking up testing duties at Renault several names have been mentioned in connection with the team, including Heinz Harald Frentzen and more recently Jos Verstappen. However the official date to name participants isn't up until 28th February 2002 so it could be some time before Minardi make an announcement.