Trulli pumped up for debut

The Italian had an acrimonious split with former employers Renault following the Italian Grand Prix last month with team boss Flavio Briatore calling him 'lazy' before replacing him with former World Champion Jacques Villeneuve.

Trulli carried out his first full test programme for Toyota at Jerez last week before the team confirmed that he would take part in the final two races of the season in Japan and Brazil.

While Trulli admits he has had very little running in the TF104, he is hopeful that racing in the final two grands prix will give him a headstart on his rivals in 2005 when he takes up a full-time berth with the Cologne-based team.

"It will be a big challenge for me to join Toyota for the final two races of this season in Japan and Brazil, but I am more motivated than ever before," he said. "I have had four days testing over the last three weeks, working mainly on making myself comfortable in the car and settling into my new team. I am particularly pleased to have the opportunity to make my race debut for Toyota at the company's home grand prix in Suzuka this weekend.

"We will certainly gain a useful time advantage in preparation for next year, as we can iron out any potential problems before we really get down to concentrating on the 2005 season. Japan is also a very special race for me personally, as I have a lot of loyal supporters, who always give me a warm welcome."