No testing 'shoot-out' for Wilson

Justin Wilson was only contracted to Jaguar for the last five races of 2003 but at the end of the season his deal was extended in order for him to take part in the winter test schedule. Jaguar is due to try out Austrian Christian Klien and American Townsend Bell later this month but the team says Wilson does not have to prove himself against the new hopefuls.

Justin Wilson.

Photo by Brousseau Photo.

"He is here, as is Mark Webber, to test the car as part of our development of the R5. We are not testing him -- we know what he can do. He is not partaking in a "shoot out" of any kind against Bell and Klien."

"Justin has done a good job in his short time at Jaguar Racing. He fits in well with the team and is very well liked. His application and focus are beyond reproach and he has performed well, particularly at the U.S. Grand Prix in trying circumstances where he scored his first championship point. All these factors are positive for him but the decision for 2004 will be widely based."

McLaren test driver Alex Wurz is reportedly the favourite to partner Mark Webber in 2004 but Nick Heidfeld and Jos Verstappen have also been linked with Jaguar. Wilson has the advantage of already being part of the team but should Jaguar not keep him on, Minardi boss Paul Stoddart has said he would welcome his former driver back.