Two teams are very interesting...

Published on 03 October 2002 by Huub Rothengatter

Even though we all want to know what is going on, not a lot is known around Jos Verstappen's situation for next season. The general media keeps on talking about Minardi. This is not that odd, Paul Stoddart keeps mentioning Jos's name everywhere he goes. It all depends on what engine Minardi will have for Jos's decision. What about other teams? Is he in the picture somewhere? Jos: "Oh yes, with one team in particular"

How are the negotiations going? Are there any developmenets?
"Nothing has changed compared to a couple of weeks ago. I know the fans would like to hear something else but we are still talking to various teams. These talks will continue as long as there is no decision. That is all that can be said."

In the media your name is still linked with a seat at Minardi. Is this an obstacle in continuing talks with other teams?
"No that doesn't make a difference. Teams do not take any notice what the media writes. Certain peopl think they know everything and do make this public. Of course we are in contact with Minardi, but also with other teams. Besides Minardi there is one team that is a very interesting option, if that team would believe what they have read in the media that I am going to Minardi these serious contacts we have at the moment wouldn't be there anymore. Don't ask me which team, I am not going to tell you."

How does first contact between team and driver established? Do they phone you or what? How did the Minardi thing go?
"In Formula 1 you hear a lot from other people. The only problem is that you don't know if these stories are true or rumours. It also depends who is telling you. Like with media you have very reliable sources and people who just shout for attention. Concerning Minardi, we heard that there was interest in me and then there was the phone call from Minardi that it was genuine. All these phone calls go through Huub, no one phones me directly."

Is the engine the only thing on which you will decide to go to Minrdi or not?
"It is the most important issue. If they don't get a good engine there is no point for me to go there. I am sure they are getting a good engine though."

So we can assume that there is a good chance that you will be driving for Minardi?
"Like I said before we are talking to various teams of which 2 are really interesting. Minardi is one of them and the chance of me driving there is reasonably big, but this is Formula 1 and you never know what is going to happen."

Let's assume that Minardi signs the deal with Cosworth tomorrow. Would you signs instantly or will you still wait for the other team, accepting all the risks that go with that?
"When Minardi's engine deal is sealed, that is positive for next year. Nothing will hold me back to go there. I don't know how long that will take, but I do hope a decision can be made very soon."

So there are ongoing talks, nothing has been signed. Decisions still need to be made, in how far do you and Huub differ in opinion about the offers and decisions?
"Not too often, luckily. I am a bit more impatient that he is though, but that is why he is my manager. I am a sportsman and Huub knows a lot about business. I think if there is a good offer I would accept it sooner that Huub would. He prefers to wait a bit longer to get more out of it."

Are you mentally and physically fit?
"Oh yes, my mental state is excellent and physically I feel fine. The best training for your neck is in the car, but I work a lot with a machine that simulates that physical strain. I cycle a lot and spend a lot of time in the gym so I'll be allright. I am ready for it, always."