Grapevine: Irvine Blasts Retirement Suggestions

Jaguar star Eddie Irvine has blasted suggestions in the Italian press that he will retire at the end of next season.

Ulsterman Irvine has regularly criticised his Milton Keynes-based team this season after a disappointing year saw them struggle to score points in most races. But Irvine, currently taking a break at his home in Miami, is determined to steer the squad to success next year and claims failure this year has only served to spur him on.

"I couldn't believe it," said Irvine of the rumours. "I am not planning to retire at the end of the 2002 season. Just because Jaguar Racing has not had a brilliant year this year, it doesn't mean I am going to give up."

Irvine's contract terminates at the end of next year, but he has made it his personal goal to achieve success with Jaguar.

"When I joined I said what I liked about my new position was that it gave me the opportunity to build a team and turn it into a winner," he added on his own personal website. "That is still my goal and as long as I am driving well and Jaguar Racing still wants me, my aim is to extend my contract for after 2002."