Alesi Still in Talks with Jordan, Says Manager

Jean Alesi is still in talks with Jordan over a possible role in testing and consultancy for 2002, and is expected to conclude any deal by the end of November.

37-year old Alesi had hoped to be kept on by the team to race next year but will replaced by Japanese youngster Takuma Sato. He is still keen on racing in 2002 and tested a Mercedes touring car last week, but although the German team are hoping to secure his services, his manager, Mario Miyakawa, said the Jordan option is still on the list of priorities.

"There is a good chance," said Miyakawa. "We are still in talks with Jordan. The only single-seater option for Jean is in consultancy and testing with them. We hope to conclude by the end of November. There are no big problems, we just have to define the possible duties."

Alesi has ruled out a move to either Champ Car racing or the Indy Racing League in America, but Miyakawa says there are still other racing options.

"I can absolutely say no about ChampCar, because there is too much confusion. IRL is not on the list either, but we do have a very serious offer from the American Le Mans series. DTM is definitely an option, too. Mercedes are interested the test was very good and Jean found the level of professionalism very high in the team."

Miyakawa refused to comment on the value of the Formula One test and ambassadorial deal to Alesi, but added: "Jordan is always tough in these discussions."