Massa in pole position for F1 spot as Irvine rejects Jordan
Irvine looks set to bring his 10-year Grand Prix career to an end after talks broke down over a return to the team where it all started for him.
Irvine’s insistence on a salary in his F1 twilight left Massa, out of a job after his maiden season with Sauber, favourite for the vacancy as he is one of the few drivers who can bring the necessary sponsorship of at least stg£3million.
British drivers Allan McNish, Anthony Davidson and rookie duo Ralph Firman and Richard Lyons have been mentioned as potential team-mates to Italy’s Giancarlo Fisichella but none can supply funding.
Former Champ Car winner Bryan Herta, who did a rousing rendition of Sex Pistols hit Pretty Vacant with team chief Eddie Jordan’s V10 rock band recently , could also be a contender.
“It’s a sad day for Formula One that Eddie can’t continue,” said Jordan, who according to sources was opposed to Irvine’s return to his Silverstone-based outfit.
“He started his F1 career with Jordan and scored points on his debut. Since then, with Jordan, Ferrari especially and Jaguar, he has shown great style and lots of character.
“He’s done well out of Formula One and the sport has been richer for his colourful and intelligent presence.”
Jordan insist they are in no hurry to announce a replacement for Japan’s Takuma Sato even though the new season is now little over six weeks away.
“I can’t comment on any particular driver but we are still in contact with a number of drivers,” said a team spokeswoman. “Nothing has been finalised yet.
“We have until the Thursday in Australia (March 6) to either name or change our nominated drivers. Obviously it would be preferable if it’s sorted out before then to give the other driver a chance to test the car.”
Irvine is understood to have been prepared to drive next season for as little as £650,000 having earned £20m in his last three seasons with Jaguar.
“It’s a sad day,” said Irvine from his home in Miami. “I’ve decided not to drive in Formula One this year, or at least at the moment.
“In July last year I made up my mind to drive for Jordan. I had very strong feelings about returning to the team which started my F1 career.
“Unfortunately, due to the economic downturn, Jordan are forced to look for a driver who brings extra funds to the team while I can only bring speed, reliability and greater experience.
“It’s a huge shame. I’ve always had a lot of affection for Jordan as a team. They gave me my big break in 1993 and I thought I could end my career with them.”
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