21/07/2004
NEWS STORY
That's the story coming out of Australia, where it's claimed that the imminent announcement of Mark Webber's signing to WilliamsF1 for 2005 will spark off a game of musical chairs that will see Giancarlo Fisichella replace Jarno Trulli at Renault.
Although some sources claim that Webber's deal with WilliamsF1 was done back in March, the Australian has a contract with Jaguar for 2005. However a performance clause in the contract - drawn up by his manager Flavio Briatore - dictates that if the ford-owned team is not in the top six in the constructors' championship by Hungary, Webber can move on at the end of the season.
With the Milton Keynes outfit currently on five points - eighth in the championship - it appears to be all over bar the shouting.
It was widely expected that Jarno Trulli would remain alongside Fernando Alonso at Renault, however a (slight) dip in form since his Monaco win, coupled with rumours of excessive pay demands, has led to talk of Briatore looking elsewhere.
Fisichella, who spent four years with Benetton, has been making a big impression this year, helping Sauber to sixth place in the championship. The Italian had been hoping to attract the attention of Ferrari or even WilliamsF1, but a return to Enstone could prove equally rewarding.
It's unlikely that any announcements will be forthcoming until the 'summer break' begins, and even then we may have to wait until Hungary. However, if Fisichella is heading to Renault, it prompts the question of where Trulli would go, after all, the Italian is currently fourth in the drivers' championship. He has been linked with Toyota, which has already signed Ralf Schumacher.
Finally, Webber at Williams, Fisichella at Renault and Trulli up for grabs, would not help Jacques Villeneuve's search for a 2005 drive.