Frentzen Released From Arrows

Heinz-Harald Frentzen was on Friday released from his contract with the debt-riddled Arrows team, strengthening speculation that he will switch to either Jordan or Sauber for the rest of this season.

Arrows are in financial difficulty and are trying to bring in new investors, but Frentzen said at the German Grand Prix last weekend that he wanted to wait until the team's future was settled before making a decision on his own plans.

Team boss Tom Walkinshaw said on Friday: "Heinz told us that due to the uncertainty at Arrows, he wished to stand down and we did not want to stand in his way."

Frentzen joined the team at the start of the season after finishing last year with the now defunct Prost Grand Prix team, but is believed to have been in discussions with Sauber and Jordan for next year.

"I'd like to thank the team for the 12 races I have had with them", said Frentzen. "The team definitely has real potential so I hope they can sort their problems out and realise their goals."

Jordan could release Japanese driver Takuma Sato if a new engine contract with Ford ends their association with Honda, while Sauber may replace young Brazilian Felipe Massa, who has made many mistakes this year and complained over team orders at Hockenheim.

Arrows retain Enrique Bernoldi and said that they have no plans to announce his partner, but the news also strengthens suggestions that Red Bull, who were looking to buy the team, could have secured the deal and are looking to put in another of their supported drivers.