When a celebrity couple announces that it is to embark on a trial separation, in an attempt to save the relationship, it's a sure sign that things have hit rock bottom, and that it won't be long until the only ones left smiling are the lawyers.

Therefore some of Ian Phillips (Jordan's director of business) comments in Interlagos will cause serious concern.

Mr Phillips has suggested that in light of Ford's withdrawal from F1, Jordan does not have an engine supply for 2005 and might be forced to sit out the season.

Of course, under the terms of the Concorde Agreement, Jordan must be there or face massive fines. However, as Phillips warns, if the team doesn't have any engines, what is the alternative?

"It's not allowed," he admitted, "but obviously if we are in a position to go racing with a race team but there is no engine available to us, then what else can you do? ... except wait until there is one available," he told Reuters.

It wasn't that long ago that salvation appeared to be at hand, thanks to Grand Prix Investments, the mysterious outfit that is now attempting to put Team Dubai F1 on the grid in 2006, building a new team from scratch, rather than purchasing an existing outfit.

Despite the constant claims by some sections of the media that Jordan was to be saved by GPI, the Irish team is now in worse trouble than ever, especially in light of Ford's withdrawal from F1.

"Ford gave us seven minutes' notice that they were pulling out," said Phillips, taking a clear swipe at the American company.

A sabbatical would not be a good move, and it has only happened once in the past, when Brabham took a year out in 1998. For Jordan it would possibly mark the beginning of the end, for a year out would cost them dearly not merely in terms of sponsorship, but also technically and in terms of staff - if the two new teams are serious about entering F1 in 2006, the Silverstone outfit could find its key staff leaving in droves.

Toyota has offered a lifeline, but it remains to be seen whether Jordan has the money to pay for the Japanese powerplants.

It's understood that if Jordan does opt to take a year out, it might claim force majeure, however if Toyota engines are available, this excuse is unlikely to be accepted.