By Huw Alban
December 30 2005

Regulars here will have noted the frequent use of "our sources at Midland" when finding out the real facts behind the rumours. It appears that those "sources" read the forum on this site closely and have asked me to clarify a hotly debated thread The thread in question is the "One step closer to Tiago ?" thread started by me after we received confirmation from our sources that the team were no longer in discussion with Takuma Sato. Those following the saga surrounding the second race seat at Midland viewed Sato as stiff competition for the popular Portugese driver and were concerned that the silence surrounding an announcement from Midland was a sign that a driver with more sponsorship was courting the team.

We were also told by Midland that an announcment concerning the second race seat would be made in early January.

Despite this several passionate Monteiro fans, frustrated by the lack of an announcement vented their feelings at Midland and even went as far as to accuse the team of showing disrespect to the driver.

Midland stated at the beginning of the year that they were aware of the mistakes that they had made and wanted to put them right in 2006. Well, folks if you want proof of that claim then here it is.

"Our sources" have spotted this thread on the forum and have taken to heart your comments. Rather than ignore them, or show disregard to your views they have taken them on board.

"With respect to the Tiago controversy that is currently raging on the message board, you can let everyone know that we are not withholding an announcement to disrespect Tiago Monteiro or to court publicity or for any of the reasons suggested," we were told today. "The fact is, we only make announcements when deals are finalized, and not before."

"... everything will be clarified in early 2006 and our reasons for holding back will become apparent at that time," our source continued. "Sorry to be so cryptic, but it will all make sense in hindsight."

I don't about you, but I'm impressed !

To have a Formula One World Championship team ask a lowly team fan site to talk directly to the fans is a pretty direct step at putting the mistakes of 2005 right.