Enge returns to F3000 for test

The Czech, who raced in the last three GPs of the season for Prost in place of the injured Luciano Burti, had little trouble getting back into the F3000 groove on the first day of this week's Estoril test. He set the quickest time of anyone except Justin Wilson, who was testing the new Lola B2/50, next year's new control chassis.

Enge finished third in the F3000 International Chamapionship this year, taking two wins for Nordic Racing. His return to the category came about at short notice. "With Prost's financial problems [it went into receivership last week], the opportunity arose for us to take a look at Tomas here," explained Arden boss Christian Horner. "We were delighted to put him in the car and he performed as expected. He was extremely impressive."

Briton Darren Manning, who has driven for Arden over the past two seasons, had been due to test, but was stood down when Enge became available. Manning's chance of staying at the team alongside well-funded Russian Viktor Maslov is under threat for 2002. Enge has joined him on a short-list of drivers, which also includes Frenchman Sebastien Bourdais and Italian Gianmaria Bruni, who also impressed at Estoril behind the wheel of Arden's second car.

"Darren is on standby for next week's Barcelona test, if he is required," said Horner.

For more details of the Estoril test click here.

For Justin Wilson's view of the new Lola click here.