Jaguar sets record straight on Burti.
In the wake of destabilising its drivers' confidence with rumours they would both be sacked at the end of the year, Jaguar has sought to calm the situation.
The arrival of Pedro de la Rosa as test driver, with a contract to race next year, had spooked Luciano Burti before he had even turned a wheel in the first race of the season. Then, it was suggested that even Eddie Irvine could be out on his ear.
In the wake of destabilising its drivers' confidence with rumours they would both be sacked at the end of the year, Jaguar has sought to calm the situation.
The arrival of Pedro de la Rosa as test driver, with a contract to race next year, had spooked Luciano Burti before he had even turned a wheel in the first race of the season. Then, it was suggested that even Eddie Irvine could be out on his ear.
"We have a long-term contract with Eddie Irvine and de la Rosa is confirmed for next year" said the team's press officer, after suggestions that Burti could be out of the running after the next race, his home grand prix in Brazil, "We have no intentions to break our driver contracts at this stage."
Much has been made of Burti's elevation to the top flight, despite a promising debut in 2000. The Brazilian is thought to have got the job as reward for his testing role with the team, but is not considered to have set the world alight on his way through the junior ranks.
However, rumours are currently flying round the paddock that Eddie Irvine might consider getting out of his contract a year early, to join Toyota who are due to make their F1 debut in 2002. This opinion clashes with recent news that Toyota test driver Allan McNish would be included in the team's line-up next season.
