By Phil Giles
August 28 2002

Allan Mcnish enters into the last four races of this years Formula one world championship without a drive for 2003. The fifth oldest driver on the grid is still fairly optomistic of a drive at the top level next year although there are few rumours floating around about him.

It came as no shock to Allan who was on a years contract with the team and no doubt, he and his management team had been engaged in talks with potentials from an early stage.  Perhaps though, more of a shock is that the team are to dispense with the services of team mate Mika Salo.

"I am very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to drive for Panasonic Toyota Racing this year," he told his website. "Ove and his team are an excellent group of people."

"As for my first year in F1," he continues. "I think I've done a solid job with strong performances, closely mirroring the efforts of my team-mate, Mika Salo, who has been driving in F1 for a few more years than me.

"In the long term, I don't have any worries that I won't be continuing at the top level but at the moment I'm obviously looking to the immediate future and preparing for Spa this weekend."

Allan, always prepared to pose for a photo at Silverstone Tests is considered F1's Mr Nice Guy.  A position that perhaps hasn't done his bargaining position any good but none the less makes it interesting for us speculators!

All the best for 2003 Allan.  Lets hope that you land the drive you deserve.