Formula One: Zonta and Sato head Jordan prospects

Ricardo Zonta and Takuma Sato have emerged as the early frontrunners to replace Heinz-Harald Frentzen following his shock sacking by Jordan yesterday.

Frentzen’s contract was terminated with immediate effect by team boss Eddie Jordan, with the move coming just two days before the 34-year-old was due to begin practice in front of his home fans for the German Grand Prix at Hockenheim.

But for Frentzen, despite 18 months still to run on a two-year deal, the situation is far from over as he is now threatening legal action against the Silverstone-based team.

There is even the prospect of Jordan facing a backlash from Frentzen supporters this weekend, during which test driver Zonta will partner Jarno Trulli.

Although Zonta has only been confirmed as ‘caretaker’ driver for Sunday’s race, he is effectively in pole position for the permanent position, especially for the final five grands prix to follow this season.

For 2002, however, Zonta might find himself challenged by another of motorsport’s up-and-coming young drivers in Sato, who is currently enjoying a superb debut season in Formula Three, and who has tested for both Jordan and BAR.

Honda, who supply engines for Jordan as well as BAR are known to be monitoring the Japanese star’s career closely, and could prove influential should they be given a say in Frentzen’s long-term replacement.

Although the main target for Sato remains the F3 title, manager Andrew Gilbert-Scott has conceded there is ‘‘a possibility’’ of a switch to F1, but talks have yet to take place with Jordan.

Gilbert-Scott added: ‘‘There are four more weekends left (in F3), which is eight races, and he (Sato) has 63 points.

‘‘We have to see how it goes, but I have not really looked into the possibility of him fulfilling his F3 contract and driving in F1. Personally, I would love to take this challenge if possible.’’

Zonta has experience on his side and at least performed admirably when he replaced Frentzen for the Canadian Grand Prix in June due to the German pulling out of practice complaining of headaches and dizziness following a crash.

The Brazilian finished seventh, and another strong showing at Hockenheim could strengthen his hand when it comes to his prospects of staying in the seat for the rest of the season and possibly beyond.

It is understood discussions are likely to take place this weekend between Jordan, Zonta and his management team for whom a spokesman said: ‘‘Regarding next season, this surely increases Ricardo’s chances now that there’s an opening.’’

For Frentzen, the future remains uncertain, although it appears he is not going to rest as he said: ‘‘The reasons I have been given for my termination I contest in their entirety.

‘‘My position in this matter is now under legal advice. Due to the current situation I am unable to make further comment whatsoever at this time.’’

Frentzen’s form had dipped considerably as he had taken just six points in his 10 races this season and been out qualified by team-mate Trulli on nine occasions.

Although it was only last month when Jordan stated Frentzen’s position was not under threat, the Monaco-based driver is known to have been highly criticial of the team and the car this season.

The situation clearly reached boiling point early last week in the wake of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone in which Frentzen again disappointed, finishing seventh and a lap down.

A clearly unhappy Jordan, in a terse statement, said: ‘‘It has been a disappointing season for both of us.

‘‘We had an exchange of views following the British Grand Prix and this is the outcome.’’

Frentzen has previously been linked with CART and F1 newcomers Toyota, but spokesman Andrea Ficarelli has dismissed claims talks have already taken place with the Japanese car giants.

‘‘We are not in negotiations with Heinz-Harald Frentzen or any of the current drivers,’’ said Ficarelli.