Minardi in last ditch talks

Speculation surrounding the future of the Italian minnow has been rife since a deal for cable TV giant PSN to buy a majority stake in the team fell through before Christmas. The Faenza-based outfit has yet to confirm its sponsors or drivers for this year, but key to the survival of the team is a supply of engines.

A deal with Renault to secure a supply of customer Supertecs is thought to be Minardi's best option. It is believed, however, that the Regie has decided to concentrate on the Benetton team, which it bought last year, particularly in light of the engine problems which have beset the outfit since the introduction of the revolutionary wide-angled V10.

Extra weight is thought to have been added to Minardi's bargaining power through the sale of Fernando Alonso's contract to Benetton team boss and Supertec chairman Flavio Briatore.

Should the Renault deal fall through, the chances of Giancarlo Minardi's team appearing on the grid in Australia would be slim - unless F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone feels obliged to broker an alternative deal to safeguard a 22-car grid.