EJ renews call to save privateers

Speaking against the backdrop of rumours that the F1 grid could slip below 20 cars by the start of next season, Jordan made it clear on Friday that he was doing everything he could to safeguard his team's future and fight back to the front of the field. He did admit, however, that circumstances were conspiring against him.

The current uncertainty over F1's future rules, with no guarantees yet of engine or chassis regulations for 2005, makes it almost impossible for small teams like Jordan to put together a viable business plan for potential sponsors or investors.

And that is why Jordan wants to put pressure on the sport's bosses to take action before it is too late. Speaking about rumours that Jordan's immediate future was in doubt, he said: "Nothing has changed. Jordan is looking for investors and partners.

"The current situation in F1 is such that it is extremely difficult indeed for private teams to keep up with the necessary budgets, or financially control their affairs. Jordan is looking for a significant partner who can derive all the benefits from an involvement in F1 and alongside that, bring Jordan back to the winning circle where they have been.

"Jordan is not and never has been in danger of bankruptcy. It is misleading and grossly incorrect to suggest so."

Jordan has been in discussions with investors from Dubai this season and has also recently been linked to talks with F3000 championship winning team boss Christian Horner.