Pizzonia Hints at Surprising Deal

Brazilian Antonio Pizzonia has confirmed he will compete in the F3000 Championship next season, while at the same time hinting he is close to a surprising Formula One deal.

Pizzonia, 2000 British Formula Three champion, will drive for the Petrobras Junior team in 2001, and still hopes he can become a test driver for a Formula One team next year.

"The decision to compete in F3000 is the best one I can take," Pizzonia admitted. "I will learn much and will certainly acquire an increased knowledge of the circuits.

"To me, F3000 seems to be a good learning ground which I intend on using to gain access to F1 in 2002."

The Brazilian has already tested both for Benetton and Arrows, and he is thought to be talking to the latter about a possible testing contract for the upcoming season, though he refused to confirm anything yet.

"We have something in the bag outside of F3000 which will be a big surprise for everyone. We haven't signed anything yet, but it will be announced in January."