Salo says Sauber’s size is shortfall

Salo, who will race for the fledgling Toyota Formula 1 team in 2002, scored just six points for Sauber this year and believes the Hinwil-based squad will not make it to the top unless it is prepared to expand.

"They are too small and have to grow a lot," Salo told Autosport's sister magazine, F1 Racing. "There are not enough people and for instance, we didn't have professional test drivers. We were testing enough, but we didn't have enough things to test."

Salo also criticised the team for a lack of funds, saying: "There is never enough money or people. Having said all that I have had a happy year and I hope that some of the things I have helped them develop this year prove beneficial."

Despite his misgivings, Salo has not ruled out a return to the team in the future saying: "Why not? I have no regrets."

The disappointment appears to cut both ways: Team boss Peter Sauber has been quoted as saying he was disappointed with Salo's performance this year especially in qualifying and expected more from the Finn.