03/03/2003
NEWS STORY
There are unconfirmed reports that security at this Friday's FIA press conference is to be stepped up following reports to the local police of a possible fracas involving Minardi boss Paul Stoddart and McLaren's Ron Dennis.
Both men are scheduled to appear at the Friday press conference which Stoddart has said will be "fun".
Both Stoddart and Dennis are described as 'hard nosed' and though race organisers are hoping that the conference will pass without incident they are not taking any chances. It's thought that Frank Williams and Jean Todt will sit either side of Dennis in an attempt to keep him calm while Eddie Jordan will attempt to pacify Stoddart in the 'cheap seats'.
What has worried F1 insiders is that in recent days Stoddart has begun a punishing 'Rocky style' training programme that includes running through the streets of his hometown Melbourne and working out in a local gym.
Seen at weekend, Stoddart (above) looked every inch a pure fighting machine, lean and hungry.