Arrows to keep Bernoldi for 2002

After months of speculation surrounding who will drive for the Leafield-based squad this year, the extension of Bernoldi's contract will bring welcome stability to the team.

According to this week's AUTOSPORT magazine, Heinz-Harald Frentzen is thought to have already signed a deal to land the second seat alongside Bernoldi. With both seats gone, Dutchman Jos Verstappen, who was outqualified 10 times by team mate Bernoldi last year, could switch to the Minardi team.

"Enrique has proven himself to be very quick from the outset, particularly in qualifying where he has been our lead driver on 10 occasions", said Arrows team boss Tom Walkinshaw. "What has impressed us most recently is his growing confidence in setting up the car and his race performances."

Arrows was one of the few teams not to start testing at Barcelona this week, but is expected to start running with its new A23 at the end of the month. Bernoldi is keen to get back behind the wheel.

"My first year in F1 was pretty tough", said Bernoldi. "But it was also very rewarding as I was able to make steady progress throughout the season. I am grateful to Tom for having confidence in me and am looking forward to giving it 100 percent and making 2002 a success."