Thankful Jordan Praises Sato

Team boss Eddie Jordan has thanked his already former driver Takuma Sato following the announcement that the Japanese star will leave the Silverstone-based outfit to join British American Racing next year.

24-year old Sato made his debut with Jordan last season, giving them two important points in the final race of the year that helped the team jump to sixth place in Constructors' Championship. But Jordan made no secret that they needed a driver with sponsorship backing for the 2003 season and were looking for a replacement for Sato.

Today the Japanese driver announced he will be returning to BAR as a reserve driver in 2003, and Jordan wished him all the best.

"Takuma Sato has natural driving talent and a lot of bravery," said Jordan. "We had an eventful and exciting season together this year. I have every confidence in him and I hope he will build on the ability that we saw demonstrated in Suzuka â€" perhaps one of the best drives of the season. I would like to extend my thanks to Takuma and the Honda Dream programme."

Sato was a test driver with the British American Racing team in 2001.