Wilson Relying on 'Fan Power' to Stay in F1

Briton Justin Wilson is hoping 'fan power' can keep him on the Formula One grid beyond his debut season with Minardi this year.

Wilson has raised the £1.2 million in funding needed to secure a seat with back-of-the-grid Minardi this season after fans, businessman and investors bought into Justin Wilson Plc, the company created to sell shares in himself.

The former Formula 3000 champion, who has yet to score a point in his debut season, is hopeful the interest shown in him will result in a lasting future in Formula One - similar to that which teammate Jos Verstappen has enjoyed.

"I hope so. Time will tell," Wilson said when asked whether fans can help him maintain his place in Formula One. "It's like Jos Verstappen. He has a very big fan base, one of the largest in Formula One, so it helps him attract sponsors and that helps keep him in Formula One.

"Jos is a very quick driver, but he doesn't get the recognition that he deserves, but his fan base helps keep him there."

Wilson has been linked with a switch to Jaguar next season, following in the footsteps of Mark Webber, the man he replaced at Minardi. But the Briton said he is simply happy to be competing in Formula One, even if his chances of scoring points with Minardi are slim.

"I love competing at the highest level, driving the car and trying to perform with the best," he said.