Christmas wish from Jos

Published on 24 December 2002 by

It is nearly Christmas. Jos, Sophie and their children Max and Victoria will celebrate this privately. Santa did not leave a present for Jos containing a Formula 1 contract. Jos does not expect to have a definite answer at the end of the year. The patience of his fans is being tested yet again. First the end of November would bring us the good news, then it might be at the end of December, but still we have not heard anything. Jos ensures us: "Do not despair, I am still very positive. I am hoping to announce some good news mid January."

Jos and his family spend some time on skis the last few days. Max especially needed some training. It was also to see whether he really enjoys it. Jos has plenty of experience on skis and the whole family will go on a short ski holiday after Christmas.

How did the last few weeks go, can you describe it?
"As everyone knows we have visited Minardi last week during the presentation of Justin Wilson. I was already in England for private business, so that meeting in London was very convenient. What we spoke about has already been mentioned by Raymond Vermeulen last week on the news page. We spoke about numerous things into detail, not only money. The only thing I can say is that we are still very enthusiastic and this feeling is mutual. I don't expect anything before the end of this year, it might even become the end of January. I think it could be sooner, somewhere mid January. It is not that long."

Raymond Vermeulen spoke about 'doing some homework'. We think he was indicating that more sponsors were needed, are we right?
"In Formula 1 everything involves money. There is an indirect link, but there are other details to work on. Sorry, I cannot tell you any more unfortunately."

Except Minardi, do you still have other options?
"Oh, yes!"

Can you elaborate on that?
"Unfortunately not and I can hear the fans say: 'there we go again with the same answer'. We are in contact with all teams where we think they can offer me a chance. The general public might think that we are only talking with Minardi but that is not true. We are speaking with other teams as well. That is all I can say, it is very sensitive. We know what we are doing and I will tell you again, although nothing is sure in Formula 1, it looks good and I am very positive that I will return."

What do you think of Justin Wilson, who might be your team mate in 2003?
"I don't know him that well. I know he drove in Formula Nissan and F3000, also that he is very tall. Whether he is the ideal team mate? I don't know, I am not in the position to be very picky. There is not a lot to choose from for me. I'll see, I've spoken with him last week and he seems alright."

Can you give your fans some extra hope to get through the Christmas holidays?
"My fans have to endure a lot of patience, I realise that very well. When I look at the number of people who visit this website and the amount of fan club members I feel great. They are my main motivation. This year they had to do without me and I promise them one thing: if/when I am driving next year I won't disappoint them. Again, it looks very good."

Where are you going on your short holiday?
"We are going to Norway, just like last year. Indeed, I could feel the question coming, with the same people. Raymond Vermeulen and Michael Schumacher and their families are coming with us. Away from it all and do some skiing. Fireworks on New Year's Eve? What do you think? Of course! We will let everyone know we're there!"

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, have a good holiday. Send Michael our regards.
"Will do. I wish all my fans a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2003 with plenty of Formula 1 pleasure!"