Wilson eyes new deal

Although the former grand prix driver was beaten to the rookie of the year title by American AJ Allmendinger this season, a run of strong top ten finishes has left him currently 12th overall in the standings and eager to do even better in 2005.

"I obviously want to stay in Champ Cars and we'll have to see what happens," said the Conquest Racing driver. "I've talked to a few other teams but Eric's [Bachelart, team boss] team is definitely an option.

"A few things need to be sorted out and obviously a lot of it depends on getting sponsors in place. At the moment it's open, but I'd like to continue here. That's the preferred option."

Wilson switched to Champ Cars after Jaguar decided not to keep him on as Mark Webber's team-mate this year following a half-season with it in 2003.

Although the Brition had shone in early appearances for the British team, the outfit decided that he was ultimately not quick enough - and more importantly he could not bring in the kind of sponsorship it needed to fund its second seat. He was replaced by Christian Klien.

Wilson believes that the continuity of a second year in the United States would allow him to show more potential.

"Continuity is very important," he said. "We've learned so much together this year and you can't take that with you to some other team. You've got to build the rapport with the crew and the engineers, and you see it with the successful teams in any formula. Staying as consistent as possible for as long as possible is the key to it."