Minardi Hope for Workable Solution with Cosworth

The Minardi team have said they will try to find a solution regarding engine supply for next season following the announcement from Ford that it will sell Cosworth Racing.

Cosworth have been providing Minardi with engines since 2003 and the struggling Anglo-Italian team announced last month they had struck a deal to continue using the power units in 2005.

Ford vice-president Richard Parry-Jones said today he had spoken to Minardi, reassuring them that this year's engine contracts would be respected. However, there was no comment regarding next year.

"Minardi has enjoyed a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Cosworth Racing over the years, and in light of today's announcement, we will be working closely with Cosworth representatives to find a workable solution regarding engine supply arrangements for next season," said Minardi team principal Paul Stoddart in a statement.

"We are confident of being able to arrive at a suitable arrangement. On a personal note, all of us at Minardi have been saddened by today's news, but fully understand the economic realities involved in competing in this sport as it is currently structured.

"Our best wishes go out to all the staff involved, many of whom are personal friends as well as work colleagues."

Ford also supplies engine to the Jordan team, who are still to comment on the situation.