airco
10-10-2001, 16:47
Speaking at a Bridgestone press conference in Tokyo, Jean Alesi announced his retirement from racing in F1. His words came as a shock to many. "I won’t race next year," Alesi stated, "but it is not completely clear what I will do. But for sure I won’t drive in F1."
Following the announcement earlier in the day that Sato has been signed as racing driver for Jordan in 2002 to partner Fisichella, Alesi’s position as a racer with the Silverstone based team became clear. There are moves, however, between Alesi and Jordan, to maintain a relationship for the future. "It is our wish," said Eddie Jordan, "to continue working with Jean. He has so much experience and knowledge still to give Formula One."
Jordan and Alesi met in person today for the first time since the decision was taken to sign Sato. "Jean has been fantastic about everything," said Jordan. "He understands the reasons for our decision. For me personally, it was a very tough decision to make because Jean is such a dear friend. There is not a bad bone in his body. But we have had to re-structure for the future and Jean understands that."
Alesi is one of only five drivers to have completed 200 Grands Prix. This weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, now it seems, Jean’s last, will be his 201st race.
enigszins had ik dit wel zien aankomen!! Jean had een mooi team gevonden om zijn carriere te beëindigen, en ik kan best begrijpen dat hij zich nu niet meer kan opladen voor een zitje bij bv Arrows!!
airco
Following the announcement earlier in the day that Sato has been signed as racing driver for Jordan in 2002 to partner Fisichella, Alesi’s position as a racer with the Silverstone based team became clear. There are moves, however, between Alesi and Jordan, to maintain a relationship for the future. "It is our wish," said Eddie Jordan, "to continue working with Jean. He has so much experience and knowledge still to give Formula One."
Jordan and Alesi met in person today for the first time since the decision was taken to sign Sato. "Jean has been fantastic about everything," said Jordan. "He understands the reasons for our decision. For me personally, it was a very tough decision to make because Jean is such a dear friend. There is not a bad bone in his body. But we have had to re-structure for the future and Jean understands that."
Alesi is one of only five drivers to have completed 200 Grands Prix. This weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, now it seems, Jean’s last, will be his 201st race.
enigszins had ik dit wel zien aankomen!! Jean had een mooi team gevonden om zijn carriere te beëindigen, en ik kan best begrijpen dat hij zich nu niet meer kan opladen voor een zitje bij bv Arrows!!
airco