Davies rejects RC deal

Davies, who drove for Fortec in the series during 1999, received an offer from the top Italian team after driving for them in the Korean international race. RC will switch to the British championship in 2000.

Their offer included the opportunity to test for the affiliated Benetton Formula One team but Davies has chosen to look elsewhere.

'It was a good offer,' he said. 'They are a very good team but they will be new to the British F3 scene and after the disappointment of last season I have to concentrate on winning the title.

'Realistically that means racing with one of the top three teams: Stewart, Manor or Promatecme.

'I don't mind which one, and I'm still in negotiation with all three. I have also received an incredible offer from France.'

However, there appear to be few vacancies at the teams Davies mentioned. Manor has signed Formula Renault champion Antonio Pizzonia and may pair him with Japanese star Tsugio Matsuda.

Promatecme seems set to run with returnee Jenson Button and Renault Spider champion Andy Priaulx while Stewart have been linked with Narain Karthikeyan and Tomas Scheckter.

RC Motorsport is now likely to field Gianmaria Bruni and Nicolas Kiesa, Formula Renault Eurocup and British Formula Ford champions respectively.

Wherever he ends up, Davies has serious ambitions for 2000:

'I can only see one other driver in the British F3 championship who is going to give me any competition, and unlike last season this time around we will be on a level playing field,' he pledged.

'I am aiming to press some Buttons and win the F3 title next season.'