Webber hopes Jaguar signs off with a roar

Mark Webber wants Jaguar’s troubled Formula One life to end on a high in this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix.

The team have been put up for sale by parent company Ford and will cease to exist if a buyer is not found soon.

Even if a new owner comes forward, the legendary Jaguar name will not be on the Formula One grid come the first race of 2005 in Australia.

Webber, wants to deliver the perfect leaving present at Interlagos. He said: “There are so many reasons why it would be nice to finish the season strongly, not least of all because it’s the last race for the team under the Jaguar Racing banner and of course my last race with the team.

“It’s also important we try to stay ahead of Toyota in the championship and if Christian (Klien) and I can both have a trouble-free weekend, I can see no reason why both of us can’t be in the points.”

Team boss David Pitchforth insists Jaguar have not wilted under the strain of their imminent extinction.

He added: “As we go to Brazil, the final grand prix of the 2004 season and the last race for the team as Jaguar Racing, team morale is still high.

“Everyone has the pride and motivation to complete the season with style in order that we finish well and impress our future owner.

“We are working hard to continue to develop next year’s car and the team’s facilities as we go through the sales process.”

Jaguar is not the only famous British name facing the end in Formula One terms, with Scotsman David Coulthard gearing up for potentially his last grand prix.

He leaves McLaren after Sunday’s race, his 150th for the team, and has yet to find a drive for next season.

Coulthard insists he is as determined as ever to continue racing but with options running out, he is facing a year without Formula One.

“There is no denying that Brazil will be a weekend of mixed emotions for me, as it has been a great nine seasons with the team,” he said.

“I believe I have the pace, desire and ability to be competitive and as I have stated, I am not ready to retire. I am continuing to try and get a drive next year, but if I don’t then I’ll try the following year.”