Wilson granted Jag extension

Wilson's contract with Jaguar ended last month, but the team wanted to make sure it had two drivers in place when the testing ban expires on November 28.

"The two sides, Jaguar Racing and Justin Wilson, have decided by mutual consent to extend his contract for a few more weeks and that will allow Justin to test for us while allowing us more time if we need it," said Jaguar's Nav Sidhu. "It's win-win for all concerned."

Wilson drove for Jaguar in five grands prix this year, but was dogged by bad fortune or poor reliability. He scored a point for the team, however, at the US Grand Prix and shone in his very first qualifying session with the team in Germany.

McLaren test driver Alexander Wurz continues to be the favourite to land the team's second seat alongside Mark Webber in 2004. McLaren has said it will not stand in Wurz's way should he land a race deal, but is unlikely to release him until the New Year while a replacement, possibly BAR refugee Jacques Villeneuve, is signed.

Red Bull-backed Formula 3 star Christian Klien is also tipped for a role with Jaguar in 2004.