Christmas greetings from Jos Verstappen
Published on 24 December 2004 by Huub Rothengatter
Like so many Dutch people, Jos travelled to Austria with his wife and children for a short ski break. Just before he left on Sunday morning we managed to speak with him to find out what his thoughts are for the 2005 season. He is not able to give us or the fans a lot of information, the only thing he wants to say is that he is focusing on Formula 1 and Champcars.
"To be honest I don't have clue what will happen in 2005. That doesn't mean I don't have any faith, it's the opposite, I do not want another year like 2004."
It is obvious that Jos wants to race in 2005, but it is not sure in what class. Formula 1 or Champcars? Jos: "money talks, even for Champcars. This is very important. We are very busy. The 'we' are: Harrie Muermans and of course Huub Rothengatter. There is not a lot of information in the public domain but this doesn't mean a thing. This is how we work and for this season unfortunately it didn't work but this doesn't mean we are at a dead end at the moment. Again: our main focus is Formula one but we have contacts with representatives from the US Champcars. We have widened our view."
Just like Formula 1 there are some seat available with top teams in Champcars. Just one remark from Jos:"in the Champcars you are limited in the input when developing the aerodynamics and set up of the car. Well, at least when you compare it to F1. The advantage is that the cars in Champcars are more alike. When you are driving with a 'lesser team', the distance to the top teams is not as far (compared to Formula 1). When you are unable to drive in a top team doesn't mean you cannot battle for first position."
This week the announcement that Christijan Albers would be driving for Minardi in 2005 became public news. A team that Jos Verstappen knows well because he drove for them in 2003. We ask Jos for his opinion on Albers joining the elite of F1, even though it is with a team that drives at the back of the field. "I think it is excellent for the Dutch motorsport that a Dutch guy participates in Formula 1. This also is a good thing for the Dutch channel SBS6, which broadcasts the Grand Prix. Paul Stoddart is a fantastic guy and Minardi is a good team to work with and for."
That is all Jos Verstappen wants and can say. "No, what should I say? I want to race in 2005, no matter what. There are enough chances to drive at the top level. The whole picture has to fit. The team, the car, but above all the money. We are working on the latter. We are still very positive and always will be."
Jos Verstappen adds: "I wish everyone, especially my fans who keep believing in me, a Merry Christman and a healthy and sportive 2005!"
Thorsten Hendriks
