Jordan Confident Honda Deal will Lead to Title

Eddie Jordan said on Tuesday he was optimistic that a new works engine deal with Honda would turn his Formula One team into eventual world champions.

"It is a huge opportunity for us," said Jordan, whose team used engines supplied by Mugen-Honda last season but is switching to works Honda units in 2001. Rival team British American Racing will use the same engines.

"We have won some races in the past but we have never been a major contender for a championship," he said.

"But this Honda connection will make it happen. I am sure of that. The union with Honda through Mugen is already strong and I am optimistic about becoming champions.

"It may take another three years to happen but I am sure that it will eventually become reality."

Jordan finished sixth in this season's championship after ending third overall in 1999.

"We've got unbelievable expectations for next year," said Jordan. "We intend to be a major force in the future and the Honda deal is the biggest thing for me in my 30 years in motorsport.

"We start on an even playing field with Ferrari and McLaren and we want to match them if it is possible."