By Phil Giles
September 11 2002

Far from being downcast after his ousting from Toyota, Allan McNish is optomistic that there will be a seat for him as a driver in Formula One next year. As reported previously, the Scot has been offered a seat at Audi for the Sportscar Team if he can't find an F1 team willing to employ him in F1.

"Obviously I was disappointed about the decision and a little surprised especially that neither Mika nor I will be there next year.  However it was the natural end to my current three-year contract and I can say that Ove Andersson acted in a very professional manner throughout.  But it is a pity I will not get the benefit of all the groundwork I have put in throughout the years with the car and the team. " he said.
 
"As for the future, we are in discussions, there are some options in F1 and some outside as well.  I have been pleasantly surprised by the number of teams interested in me for 2003. Although you will need to wait some weeks before knowing what is happening I think it will be worth the wait. I am confident."
 
It's no secret that Audi are interested in McNish for a race seat, however Bentley are also on the look out for a driver and have shortlisted Allan for a seat.

Have your say on our Messageboard

Do you think Allan should be picked up for an F1 drive or should he return to Sportscars. 

www.totallytoyotaf1.com