Castroneves readies for Toyota test.

Having narrowly missed out on a possible Indy Racing League title in his first full season in the formula. Helio Castroneves is busy preparing himself for another new challenge when he tests a Formula One car.

With the Japanese brand eager to increase its share of the South American car market, Toyota's F1 team is leaning towards a Brazilian team-mate for new signing Olivier Panis and, with the chances of recruiting Cristiano da Matta fading rapidly, has turned its attention to other possibilities.

Although Castroneves has another year to run on his current Penske contract, he admits to having a desire to race in Formula One - following fellow CART graduates Jacques Villeneuve and Juan Montoya from the USA - and wants to go well when he runs with Toyota to create the right impression for the future.

"I always have a wish to drive a Formula One car, and I guess the opportunity showed up," he said shortly after the IRL's Texas finale, "I'm very happy to go and try.

"I should think it's going to be between Friday and Saturday. I'm leaving tomorrow, though, as we have to do a seat fitting. I don't know if all the people are going to race there or try the ride, but it's an opportunity."

Lest anyone be too keen to link the Brazilian to a possible race deal, however, Castroneves insists that he is all set to stay with Penske in the IRL for 2003.

"As far as next year, so far I'm set with Roger," he confirmed, "I guess I'm very happy about the team. I believe they're happy, as well. When you have a good combination, it's difficult to break. As far as I'm concerned, I'm here next year."