New Jordan Breaks Cover at Silverstone

The new Jordan EJ14 broke cover at the Silverstone circuit on Monday, with German Nick Heidfeld completing the first few laps with the new machine.

The Ford-powered car had its maiden track outing with German Heidfeld at the wheel on Silverstone's International Circuit. Heidfeld, who is the only Jordan driver confirmed for 2004, completed 37 laps in the wet and was happy with the car.

"It's good to be here with the team, I feel at home already and the first test of a new car is always something special," said Heidfeld.

"The car looks good and I've done quite a few laps with no technical problems. Unfortunately it rained overnight so the track was wet all day and while usually I like driving in the wet, I'm looking forward to driving the new car in dry conditions."

The team said they will not hold a launch for their new EJ14, but the car will have its first public outing on Wednesday. The team said they were hoping that both Heidfeld and his new teammate, yet to be announced, would be present for the test.

"I'm happy to say that the EJ14 is a step forward from last year's car," said team boss Eddie Jordan. "It has been a team effort with our experts from each field contributing their part. We've seen the biggest improvement in aerodynamics that we have ever seen from one year's car to another.

"Time will tell whether that means we will catch up with the guys who were ahead of us last year but I am feeling optimistic, as always. Many of our partners have stayed loyal to the team and I hope we will have a few surprises to come before the season starts.

"Right now, Jordan is here with a brand new car and I'm very encouraged by what I have to show off this week."

The car sported sponsorship from Trust, the Dutch company who supported Jos Verstappen, who was in talks with Jordan over the second racing seat. Verstappen said last month that he had broken off the negotiations.