Jordan confirms Massa interest

Japanese ace Takuma Sato still has a year to run on his contract, but it has been no secret that his place at the team is far from secure for next season.

"Massa is one of a number of drivers we have had contact with," a Jordan spokeswoman told Autosport.com. "We know he is very highly regarded. But nothing has been agreed. After all, it has been reported in recent weeks that he has joined Ferrari as a test driver."

But Massa, who was dropped by Sauber despite an impressive rookie season in Formula 1 this year, has been reported as saying that he will definitely be joining Jordan - either as a race or test driver.

"It's all decided," he said. "Eddie Jordan wants me in his team. I am very confident about the 2003 season. I am focussing on F1 racing 100 percent. Should I not get a racing contract, I will sign on with one of the top teams as a test driver."

With the loss of main sponsor Deutsche Post, Jordan's already tight financial state means that the chosen driver will have to bring funding. Along with Sato and Massa, Britons Anthony Davidson and Eddie Irvine have been tipped for the seat, while Dutchman Jos Verstappen has emerged as an outside bet.