Wilson disappointed at Jaguar decision

Justin Wilson is naturally disappointed that Jaguar has opted to replace him with Christian Klien for 2004 but knew it would probably happen. Wilson was transferred to Jaguar from Minardi for the last five races of the 2003 season after Jaguar dropped Antonio Pizzonia. His contract was extended until the end of the year so he could test with Jaguar but the team announced on December 2nd that Klien had the race seat for 2004.

"It's disappointing," said Wilson. "I have known this was on the cards for a while. I know why they made the decision they have and there is little I can do about it. I'm still waiting to see what happens about the rule governing test driving. I would like to remain with the team in a test driving role. Minardi is also a possibility."

Whether Wilson will get the test role is uncertain; new FIA regulations state that the bottom six teams can run a third driver in Friday test sessions of a race weekend but that driver must not have competed in more than six Grands Prix in the previous two seasons.

This would rule Wilson out of Friday practices, although it's yet to be seen if he could be a tester aside from race weekends. Jaguar has opted for limited testing through the year, even without the Heathrow agreement, so there would seem little scope for a full time test driver.

David Pitchforth, Jaguar's managing director, commented: "I cannot thank Justin enough for his hard work and commitment since joining us after the British Grand Prix. Justin's speed, focus and experience are exemplary and our decision to put Christian Klien in the race car in no way reflects upon Justin's clear ability as a competitive racing driver. We are, however, in discussions with Justin about how Jaguar Racing can help with his future career."

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