By Site Staff (22/02/03)
February 22 2003

The new Toyota driver line-up for 2003 haven't even had the chance to take to the competitive track yet, but already speculation can be found with regard to the team's future driver signings. Ralf Schumacher is the latest name to be connected with Toyota, after a statement released by Schumacher manager Willi Weber. Weber's comments come after unrest within the Williams camp over the performance on their 2003 car, and allegations that Williams team mate Juan Pablo Montoya is being given preferencial treatment at the team.

"Toyota take priority in my plans for Ralf's future. They are a top quality team with loads of potential," Weber was quoted as saying late this week. "After the Hungarian GP later this year in Budapest we will sit down and talk."

The quote has been reportedly played down by the driver himself, but his less-than-enthusiastic feelings over the 2002 FW24 are already on record. 2003 will be Ralf Schumacher's 5th season with the BMW powered Williams team, and he apparently has a contract there until the end of 2004. Signs are that 2005 will be the year he jumps ship.