Verstappen Considering Minardi Offer

Dutchman Jos Verstappen has said that he is "seriously considering" an option to join Minardi in 2003 and claimed that the back-of-the-grid team can do a good job next season.

Minardi boss Paul Stoddart revealed yesterday that they are in talks with Verstappen's management over a drive for next year and the former Arrows driver admitted that the offer is "very interesting".

Verstappen, who was ditched by Arrows on the eve of the current season, insisted Minardi are definitely switching engine suppliers next year - Cosworth power units are likely to be used instead of Asiatech-- and said that will help them move up the grid.

"If Minardi gets a new engine they will be a lot better," Verstappen said on his official website. "It is logical that we follow this team more closely and are open for possible negotiations.

"It is quite clear - they are getting a new engine, hundred percent sure. An offer from Minardi is very interesting and will be considered very seriously.

"Minardi has a good chassis. I have spoken with Greg Wheeler (Minardi's race engineer) and he is very positive. I am sure that Minardi can do a good job with a new engine."

Verstappen said he hopes his future can be sorted in the coming weeks in order to begin testing with his new team throughout the winter in order to familiarise himself with a new car.

"I hope it doesn't take too long (to sort of my future), testing during the winter is very important," he added. "You have to be able to get used to the car and how earlier you can start doing this the better."