Herta told to find a new team

Herta, a protégé of team boss Bobby Rahal, took his first victory at Laguna Seca last September and looked like he might finally mature into a title contender, but has been slower than new partner Max Papis for most of this season. He has been told to look around for a new drive for 2000.

'It's time for me to start talking to other teams,' he admitted. Herta has been linked to the Walker Racing seat made vacant by Gil de Ferran's move to Penske.

Kristensen, currently driving for Honda in German touring cars, is a former Le Mans winner and a Formula 3000 star. He tested for CART team Bettenhausen in 1996 and set the fastest time in a four-driver shoot-out. The Dane was at the Lexington round of the championship last weekend and admitted speaking to Rahal.

'I was there to show my face to various teams, including Team Rahal,' he said. 'It's not gone any further than that.

'I think I deserve a chance now. I think I will get a test, if not even better.'

Kristensen may also test for the Williams Grand Prix, but with Alex Zanardi's position looking more secure, he is unlikely to get a race seat. Technical director Patrick Head rates Kristensen highly.