Irvine Out of Formula One for 2003

Ulsterman Eddie Irvine confirmed he will sit out the 2003 season - and possibly retire indefinitely - after talks with the Jordan Grand Prix team have failed to materialize.

Irvine, whose contract with Jaguar Racing ended last year, was widely rumoured to negotiate with Jordan for the vacant racing seat, alongside Giancarlo Fisichella, stating he would like to end his career with the same team he first raced with in Formula One, in 1993. However, he now confirmed to Britain's The Sun that he will not be driving next year, and expressed sadness at having to effectively retire from the sport.

"It's a sad day. I have decided not to drive in Formula One this year - or at least at the moment," the Ulsterman told the newspaper while staying at his Miami, Florida, home.

"In July last year I made up my mind to drive for Jordan Grand Prix. I had very strong feelings about returning to the team which started my F1 career. I've always had a lot of affection for Jordan as a team. They gave me my big break in 1993 and I thought I could end my career with them.

"Unfortunately, due to the economic downturn, Jordan are forced to look for a driver who brings extra funds to the team whilst I can only bring speed, reliability and greater experience."

Speaking to the newspaper, Irvine also paid respect to Italian Giancarlo Fisichella, with whom he would have teamed had he signed for Jordan. "Driving alongside Giancarlo Fisichella would have been fantastic," he said. "I'd have been working with a driver I really respect."

Irvine in particular expressed regret at not participating in the new qualifying structures and under the new Formula One regulations, stating: "It's a shame because I really would have enjoyed the rule changes, specially single-lap qualifying."

Nevertheless, the 37-year-old driver, who raced in Formula One for ten seasons, did not rule out entirely a future return to the sport. "You never know what can happen," he said.