Firman still has faith in Jordan

Ralph Firman is determined to remain at Irish outfit Jordan despite his faith in the team pushed to the limit following yesterday’s horror smash.

Firman was back in the Formula One paddock today following an overnight stay at a local hospital after remarkably suffering nothing more than concussion and a severely bruised heel during the 150mph crash in free practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The 28-year-old from Norwich, he concedes it was the biggest accident of his career, and the sixth serious incident he has been involved in with Jordan this year since joining the team just before the start of the season.

Yet Firman, sporting a crutch, remains unfazed by the incident in which the Jordan lost its rear wing, while his confidence in the team is unshakeable despite continual problems.

Firman has already stated his desire to be back in the car for the Monza test early next month and competing in the final three grands prix of the season in Italy, United States, and Japan.

Beyond that Firman, who has a three-year contract, hopes team boss Eddie Jordan will at least ask him to compete for the team for next season as he feels he will improve.

“I’ve always wanted to stay here,” said Firman, who has picked up just a single point this campaign.

“A decision sooner rather than later would be nice and although I’ve chatted to Eddie about next year, he’s a few other things on his mind at the moment.

“But this year has been a huge learning year for me. Given the things I’ve learned and the new circuits, it would be silly for it to go to waste. I know there’s a lot more. I haven’t fulfilled my potential.

“I know I want to be here next year to give the team continuity and support because I’m 110% behind them and I want to get back to winning ways with them, even though it might take a few years.

“They’ve tasted victory and not many teams have done that especially over the last few years.

“They’re a cracking team with all the right people and if they settle down with a big budget, I’m sure they’ll do well.”

Money is Jordan’s big problem, with Firman realising the team may have to bring in paying drivers to help support them, although he hopes that will not be the case.

When asked whether his future depended on money, he replied: “I would assume so.

“That’s what it comes down to at the end of the day. If they need two paying drivers then it’s going to be difficult for me to stay here.

“If they don’t, then I’ve a chance. But I’ve really enjoyed working with Benson and Hedges and all the sponsors this year. They’re a good company and hopefully I’ve got good advertising for them.

“But at the end of the day we all want to score points – that’s what we’re all here for and I’m disappointed not to have scored more.”

That is partly due to the mechanical problems Firman has suffered in testing and in races, but he has given his wholehearted support to those around him, rather than choosing to criticise.

“It’s not great to have an accident no matter what the situation,” added Firman.

“It’s the sixth big mechanical failure which has caused an accident this year - and that’s one too many.

“But the team are great and the mechanics are some of the best guys I’ve worked with. I’ve no complaints and I’m really happy.

“They’ve been tremendously supportive all year from start to finish. I’ve complete confidence in them putting the car together.”