Toyota Prepared to Supply Engines to Another Team

Toyota could throw a lifeline to struggling Jordan after saying they would be prepared to supply a second team with engines next season.

Toyota motorsport president John Howett, speaking after Formula One's governing body confirmed 2005 engine regulations on Friday, said however that any approach would probably have to come within days.

"Now that it's a two-race engine, and because there seems to be a crisis for supply, we are, I think, prepared to do it," he told Reuters at Interlagos. "But I genuinely believe now that we are past the ideal time by about three weeks, we've probably got one more week. If somebody clearly can get a deal together that is sensible, then we may definitely consider supplying.

"But...it's starting to compromise our own programme if we really don't decide now," Howett added.

Jordan have no engine deal for 2005 after Ford announced they were pulling out of Formula One after Sunday's season-ending Brazilian Grand Prix and selling their Jaguar team and engine-maker Cosworth Ford. Jordan and Minardi also used Cosworth engines this year.

Fewer Engines

The FIA announced today that engines would have to last for two race weekends, rather than one at present, before a reduction in 2006 to 2.4 litre V8s from 3.0 litre V10s. That should mean teams require fewer engines while manufacturers may have spare capacity.

Despite Toyota's position, after announcing earlier this month that it was too late to supply anyone else, Minardi boss Paul Stoddart said he believed Cosworth remained the only realistic option. He was also confident a buyer would be found.

"There's no-one else going to supply engines in 2005 to three teams, other than Cosworth," he said. "In 2005 there will be no supply from any of the existing teams in Formula One for a second engine supply.

"In 2005 the existing three teams will have to rely on a Cosworth or whoever the new owners of Cosworth are," added Australian Stoddart. "I'm in a slightly different position because if all else fails, I have my own engine. I don't want to use it but I can, but I don't think I'll be using it."

Teams have until November 15th to enter for the 2005 Championship and need to have an engine deal in place before that date.