11/01/2005
NEWS STORY
With just over seven weeks to go before the first practice session in Melbourne, Jordan is about to take delivery of the first of its engines from Toyota.
Due to the fact that Toyota was late in deciding to supply a rival team with engines, having previously ruled out the idea, the entire programme is slightly behind schedule, which has had a knock-on effect on Jordan.
Consequently, the Irish outfit's technical director, Mark Smith, has warned fans not to expect 'instant miracles' from the Toyota-powered EJ15.
"The EJ15 is essentially a development of the EJ14 with a Toyota engine installation and to the new regulations," said Smith, according to Reuters. "Once we are able to move forward from this start point, the plan is to look at a significant development mid-season.
"I would be very cautious about expectations for the first races of 2005 but I am confident that we can start really doing something once the season is under way so don't be hasty in writing us off," he added.
Far from expecting miracles, Jordan's many fans will be happy simply to see the cars line up on the grid, following months of speculation regarding the team's future, with serious concerns that the Silverstone-based team might not survive the winter.
Then there was the talk of a buy-out, either by Arden International boss, Christian Horner, who has now taken over at Red Bull, and even Midland F1 rumoured to be showing an interest.
The team has struggled in recent times - despite the win in Brazil in 2003 - and Eddie and his crew will be happy merely to have made it to Oz. Hopefully the results will follow, though it looks as though, once again, the team will have to rely on pay drivers.
The Toyota power-plant is widely regarded as one of the best on the F1 grid, which at least gives Jordan something to build on.