Albers Rules Out Minardi Drive in 2003

Dutch driver Christijan Albers has pulled out of talks with the Minardi team over a racing seat for the 2003 season, he announced today.

Minardi boss Paul Stoddart had revealed at the end of last year that Albers and compatriot Jos Verstappen were the main candidates to land the drive alongside Briton Justin Wilson. But Albers, who was a test driver for the small Faenza-based outfit, has ruled out racing for Minardi next season.

A statement on his official website said that he had found the budget for the drive, but that the sponsors and Stoddart could not agree on the payments due on the very short term and the contracts.

"Formula One remains the ultimate goal for me so I do not give up my hopes," said Albers. "I know I can make it. My sponsors made a fantastic offer to Paul, which he unfortunately could not accept. Fortunately there is still a lot to win for me with Mercedes in DTM and since I am only 23 there is enough time to become an F1 driver.

"I still hope that I can start my career with Paul Stoddart and Minardi F1. I really like the team and hope that they get stronger soon. I look forward to next season and hope it will be as successful as the year in which I became F3 champion. I want to win again and I am top fit."