Firman must wait for Indianapolis

Britain’s Ralph Firman has vowed to prove a point when he finally gets back into a Formula One car after being ordered to miss Sunday’s race in Italy.

He will have to wait another two weeks for the United States Grand Prix at Indianapolis before he can resume his rookie season.

Firman was told not to race at Monza after informing the sport’s medical delegate professor Sid Watkins he is suffering with vertigo following his 150mph crash in Hungary three weeks ago.

“I want to prove a point when I race again,” said Firman, who has yet to secure his seat with Jordan-Ford for 2004.

“It is disappointing to miss one grand prix, but two is even harder. I am just looking for a sporting chance to do well. I am desperate to go motor racing, especially in F1.

“I am looking forward to the next two races, especially Japan where I clinched the Formula Nippon title at Suzuka last year.

“It has been a tough year, but I am hoping to go through next year with Jordan. I am still 100% behind the team.

“We have a three-year agreement which has not been confirmed – but we are in the process of talking about that. Giancarlo (Fisichella) has moved on, and I would like to give continuity and support and help the team get back to winning ways.”

Firman passed a medical in London last Monday but was immediately ordered to sit-out the final European race of the season after telling professor Watkins of his problem.

“I have got vertigo, but it is only when I lie down you get the effects,” added the 28-year-old.

"But when you are driving a Formula One car at 200mph who knows what the effects might be on the circuit. The G forces might do something.

“If I wanted to cover it up I could have done. I could have hid it from Sid, but you have got to be honest.

“He is the professional – and I could do myself, someone else or spectators some damage if I was driving round and something happened.”

Firman was expected to be replaced by Hungary’s Zsolt Baumgartner – who deputised for him at the Hungaroring – when practice got under way this morning.