By Phil Giles
August 29 2002

As the 2003 rumour mill drives on, talk of Toyota's second driver turns towards the amiable Dutchman Jos Verstappen. The shock announcement from Toyota earlier this week meant that they would be without the current incumbents Mika Salo and Allan McNish for the next season. The announcement of Olivier Panis came as no shock to at least McNish but not confirming Salo means that the team have yet to confirm who will partner Panis.

American CART driver Christiano De Matta (Just think of all the wassamatta jokes!) was in the frame, however his F1 experience will not assist in developing the car which is one of the teams aims.  Verstappen however is a very experienced driver and no doubt assisted with the development of this years Arrows.  The Arrows (when it's been allowed to run) this year has been impressive and Jos' miles in the car in 2001 definitely had an effect.

It's understood from posts on the Arrows board that Verstappen and his management team are in Spa this weekend.  Verstappen is known to be in the hunt for a drive, after his dismissal from Arrows just before the start of the season.

It is thought that the team will make an announcement on Olivier's partner this weekend.  More news as it arrives.