"Jos, how much longer do we have to wait?"

Published on 09 January 2004 by Huub Rothengatter

"It is Formula 1" is Raymond Vermeulen's reply when we ask how things are progressing between Jos Verstappen and Jordan. "It could last another couple of weeks. Maybe end of January maybe even February but then again things could speed up and we might be able to get to a deal sooner.", according to Raymond Vermeulen.

"It is obvious that the negotiations are still ongoing. Vermeulen denies thata contract has been signed. There is contact but no contract. The media write what they like about signed contract, but it is untrue."

Why does it have to take this long? "Sponsors have to get on one line with Eddie Jordan. The team wants a good driver in combination with a very attractive financial deal and the sponsors want as much exposure as they can get. Not only the livery of the car but also hospitality, tickets for relations, etc." At the moment Trust's MD Michel Perridon is in the USA for business and won't return until Tuesday 20 January. "This is not a limitation for the negotiations" Vermeulen adds. "We keep in touch on a daily basis and Michel knows exactly what is going on."

Jos Verstappen has intensified contacts with the team. He doesn't get involved too much with the business aspects. He speaks with the team and Eddie Jordan about technical issues concerning the car. The talks with Jordan are ongoing on all fronts.

Vermeulen will not be tempted to mention a date for signing the contract. "Patience. I won't say anything about that, it still is Formula 1. Tomorrow it can be completely different. We are positive about the developments, we are still talking. That is all that can be said."