Damon will stay with Jordan says Eddie

That is the opinion of team boss Eddie Jordan.

The owner of the Irish team quashed rumours the ex-champion could quit before Japan if he is not performing well.

And he has ruled out the chance of Hill, who announced last week he is to retire at the end of the season, quitting in a fortnight after an emotional return to the British Grand Prix.

'I think Damon will finish the season - in fact I am pretty certain of it,' said Jordan.

'He has too much to lose and Jordan has too much to lose. We need third place in the constructors' championship and he has promised to help me to do everything possible to achieve that.

'I cannot see how a world champion who as won 22 races is going to leave in the middle of a down cycle. It doesn't make much sense to me.

'You know what they say about drivers - you are as good as your last race.'

Hill has admitted he has made a 'pigs ear' of the season so far but believes he can turn it around.

'If he does a good race in France and Silverstone he will be on so much of a high he will want to repeat the success he had last year,' said Jordan.

'If you are married and have four kids and you no longer enjoy racing and the spark has gone out you are obliged to do what he did.

'The question is should he do it now or go on?

'I also have to get the best championship results from the best possible driver I can find and there is no question at the moment Damon is the best available.

'That third place in the championship is everything to me - nothing else matters.'