Ralph Firman attended last night's Champ Car World Series season premiere in Long Beach, California, at the invitation of team owners to continue discussions with teams, sponsors and partners regarding the possibility of securing a drive in this year's championship.

The event, which continues today with leading teams attending press events to discuss their plans in the lead up to the season opener at Long Beach on April 18th, enabled 28 year old Firman to meet everyone concerned with the series as he finalises his racing activities for this year.

"I've been in discussions with a number of teams who have expressed strong interest in my coming to race in America, so this was a great opportunity to meet people face to face and take things onto the next step," said Firman. "I have received two offers in the past week to race in ChampCar and sports cars, but it's a question of evaluating the most competitive options and also looking to the longer term plan. I could race in either this year if I had competitive equipment available."

Speaking about the calibre of the ChampCar teams and their plans for this season, Firman added, "It's very clear that ChampCar is heading for a new era and there are a lot of determined people trying to make sure that the series continues to offer some of the best racing in the world. For me it could offer an ideal arena in which to race now that the Formula One opportunities have closed down for 2004, and I know I can win any championship if I can get behind the wheel of a competitive car. The way things are going I am certain I'll have my plans completed soon and my racing programme underway for this season."