Following the conclusion of a deal which will see his team using Toyota power-plants in 2005 - an engine reckoned by Toyota technical director Mike Gascoyne to be one of the best in F1 - team boss Eddie Jordan was full of praise for the Japanese manufacturer.

"Not only have they been fantastic to Jordan by agreeing this deal at such short notice, but they have also done the magnanimous thing for the sport by putting Formula One above their own exclusivity, "said the Irishman.

"A supply of Toyota engines is an enormous boost for Jordan and I am very excited about putting together our 2005 package in the coming weeks and months," he added.

"This announcement, along with others coming shortly, will revive the fortunes of Jordan Grand Prix and at the same time I hope we can help Toyota in the battle for World Championship honours."

It's widely assumed that the 'other announcements' Jordan was referring to was possible backing from a Chinese sponsor or consortium.