Sato Calm over F1 Future

The Japanese driver has been dropped by BAR after a disappointing 2005 campaign and, although he has been linked with drives at the new Honda-outfit and the Jordan-Midland team, he has yet to firm up his plans.

Despite the uncertainty, Sato has made it clear that he is not panicking about his prospects for next season.

"I've had some great times with BAR and it's been fantastic, but we are obviously working hard and a new door is opening for me," he said.

"It's an exciting project but, until we have an official entry from the FIA, nothing is happening yet.

"But I am looking forward to the next few months. This week I have PR commitments in Japan, but then I can take a little holiday to recharge my batteries and relax. And then maybe the chance to build up a new team."

Details of the new Honda-backed team have still not been released, although it is looking increasingly likely that it will be run by the Super Aguri Racing and Dome operations.

Should those plans fall through, then Sato has the fallback option of a drive with Midland, which was first reported at the Brazilian Grand Prix.

The Midland team's managing director Colin Kolles told this week's Autosport: "Takuma has the contract, so now the ball is in his court. If he wants to sign it, he could be a Midland driver next year. We offered him the contract in Brazil and we are still waiting to hear."