By Nick Sparkes
January 14 2006

Toyota president John Howett has been flattered by the speculation of Kimi Riakkonen or Michael Schumacher wanting to join Toyota in 2007. Over the last month both drivers have been connected to a seat at the Toyota team, with Jarno Trulli's contract coming to an end this season. Jarno said at today's TF106 launch "My contract is to the end of the season. Me and Toyota are focusing on the 2006 season and we are not in a hurry to renew the contract. We are talking."

"I have other options, this is very clear. In case Toyota don't want to continue I don't want to lose the other good option. I hope and I believe that if we show good performance we can carry on together."

John Howett also said at the launch that Toyota have had "no contact" with either Kimi or Michael over the past month.

He also expressed his confidence in both Jarno and Ralf that both "can deliver what we want for 2006".

"We feel it is too early really to consider what we do in the future," Howett continued.

"I think next year we are not capable of pushing for the championship. The next step is victory and from there we have to see as we move towards becoming serious championship contenders."