Verstappen not giving up

The signing of Giorgio Pantano by Jordan for the last race seat in F1 for 2004 has left Jos Verstappen disappointed but determined to return. The Dutchman has considered other series' but F1 is where he wants to be and he's not giving up on finding ...

The signing of Giorgio Pantano by Jordan for the last race seat in F1 for 2004 has left Jos Verstappen disappointed but determined to return. The Dutchman has considered other series' but F1 is where he wants to be and he's not giving up on finding a way back in. He suggests that some of this year's drivers may not last the season.

Jos Verstappen.

Photo by Brousseau Photo.

"For the time being I will focus my efforts on Formula 1. It won't surprise me if some seats become available during the season," he told his website. "Well, they (teams) know that I am on the bench with a nice sponsor package on offer."

"I am very disappointed," he added of Jordan's decision. "But I can see possibilities. I have to see if all drivers can make the grade. Each season we see changes within teams. I have to be ready: I am focused, physically fit, ready to get in a car and go fast. My sponsors are eager to return."

"We want the world of Formula 1 to know that we haven't said goodbye. There is a driver available with talent, experience and a financial attractive package. All team owners know that. The season hasn't started and definitely hasn't finished yet!"

Pantano's signing also ended the hopes of Ralph Firman, who drove for Jordan last year, but it wasn't a surprise. "Jordan's announcement is a setback but I have been aware of the position for some time," said Firman. "I am only really disappointed that the difficulties with last year's Jordan car made it impossible to do anything significant in my rookie season."