Wilson Had Secret Seat Fitting at Jaguar

Briton Justin Wilson had a secret seat fitting at Jaguar's headquarters before talks began over a move from Minardi, it was revealed today.

Speaking at a media lunch, Wilson said that he thought the seat fitting had been in regards to a move in 2004, but discovered it had been to ensure he could fit into the car before talks got underway.

"I wasn't sure why they were asking me to sit in the car," said 25-year-old Wilson, who will make his debut for Jaguar in the German Grand Prix at Hockenheim next week. "I thought perhaps they were thinking about 2004 and I was a bit nervous but I was just pleasantly surprised at when I did get in everything seemed okay."

Jaguar chief executive officer Tony Purnell added: "There seemed no point talking about any opportunity if he could not drive the car."

Wilson, who stands at 6'3, had missed out on a drive with Jordan after winning the Formula 3000 title because his lanky frame could not fit into the car, before Minardi took a chance on him.