Heidfeld to test Jordan

Nick Heidfeld has moved a step closer to driving for Jordan next season after signing a testing contract with the Formula One strugglers.

The German driver was released by Sauber at the end of last season and had few options for a return to the grid in 2004.

Silverstone-based Jordan have now taken up an option on Heidfeld which will see him test at Jerez in Spain next week, with team boss Eddie Jordan also set to hand Czech rookie Jarek Janis his Formula One chance.

Jordan said: “Nick is a prime candidate for a revitalised Jordan Grand Prix next year and we are anxious for him to start getting to know the team at this stage.

“It is an important test as we have got a lot of new components to try as well as vital tyre testing for Bridgestone.”

Englishman Ralph Firman drive for Jordan last season and is still in with a chance to continue, although Heidfeld’s likely signing would leave him battling it out with test driver Zsolt Baumgartner and a clutch of others for the seat.