Pizzonia underlines commitment to F3

Green Flag British F3 Championship, despite recent reports of a test in aFormula 1 Benetton.

Reports are already linking the brilliant Brazilian to a seat with the
team, now owned by Renault, for 2001.

"I am very flattered by the interest shown in me by Benetton, but I am
trying to focus on winning the British Formula 3 Championship. It is my
main priority at the moment and although I am hoping to test with Benetton
in a few weeks time, F3 is very important to me."

Pizzonia has won the first two rounds of the championship and is aiming for
a third win in a row at Oulton Park, Cheshire, on Monday 1 May.

"I haven't raced on this version of Oulton Park before and so it is all new
to me. I like it a lot - it is a circuit for brave drivers."

Bosses of the Green Flag British F3 Championship have responded positively
to news of Pizzonia's rumoured relationship with Benetton, especially in
the wake of Jenson Button's stunning performance in last week's British
Grand Prix. Button finished third in last year's championship.

A championship spokesman said: "This is another major boost for the British
F3 Championship. This is further evidence that British F3 is THE training
ground for Formula 1. Of the 22 drivers at Silverstone last weekend, 13
have raced in the British F3 Championship and the news that Antonio
Pizzonia may be heading to F1 is a wonderful boost for the championship."