Argentina Faces Axe After Esteban's Exodus.

The future of the Argentine Grand Prix is once again in the balance, following the unexpected departure of Minardi driver Esteban Tuero.


It is hard to believe that an inexperienced driver - racing for one of the sport's perpetual minnows - could have such an effect but, having re-instated the race on the wishes of Argentine premier Carlos Menem and the support of several leading industrialists, Tuero's exit effectively leaves the race with little point.


Additionally, the race organisers have struggled to reach an agreement with the FIA on several matters, leaving its place on the calendar extremely tenuous. Argentina was originally slated as a reserve race for 1999 - having lost its place to the new Chinese event - but was re-instated when it became clear that Zhuhai may not cope with the sudden arrival of F1.


The FIA's plans to replace the race are not clear, however.