Jordan predicts Firman will be Rookie of the Year

Eddie Jordan has predicted Ralph Firman will be Formula One Rookie of the Year in 2003.

The Jordan team owner, who unveiled 27-year-old Firman as his second driver today, said the Briton was signed because of his driving ability rather than his commercial profile.

Brazil's Felipe Massa had been favourite to fill the Jordan vacancy because he could have secured huge cash sponsorship for the team.

However, speaking this afternoon, Eddie Jordan said: "Ralph has been able to introduce to Jordan Grand Prix commercial opportunities, but that was not conditional on him driving for us. Ralph is not bringing in any money, we are paying him. We were in a position over the winter where we were looking for a commercial driver, but things changed. Ralph has won in every category he has been in and I am confident that he will shine this year."