Minardi strikes out at Toyota’s Brunner deal

Toyota announced yesterday (Monday) that it had secured Brunner's services as its new chief designer as it gears up for its Formula 1 debut in 2002. But Minardi has issued a statement saying it intends to take legal action over the move that has removed one its most valued attributes in its quest to move away from the rear of the F1 grid this season.

"We are obviously disappointed at this news," said European Minardi team boss Paul Stoddart. "Gustav has been a trusted and highly regarded member of our staff, and for him to act in this way is totally incomprehensible to us.

"We are surprised and saddened that a company of Toyota's standing would seek to employ Mr Brunner, who has an irrevocable contract with Minardi until January 1, 2003. As such, European Minardi will be pursuing all of its options in law against both Mr Brunner and Toyota."

Minardi's deputy technical director Gabriele Tredozi will assume the day-to-day operation of both the drawing office and technical staff at its Faenza base.