By Huw Alban
January 19 2006

Late yesterday we were made aware of a quote from Johnny Herbert on Crash.net that appeared to confirm Tiago Monteiro's place with Midland. According to Midland, Tiago's position was never denied but obstacles prevent an official announcement. Johnny's quote yesterday didn't actually state that the No.2 seat belonged to the popular Portugese driver, but the implication that the seat hadn't changed hands was there. As ever we decided to seek advice from our sources with the team to check whether there had been any change in Monteiro's position.

"Just as the team has not officially announced Tiago's position, it has never denied it, either," we were told early yesterday evening. "As I have stated all along, the delay boils down to contractual issues. We had hoped they would be resolved by this time but unfortunately for all parties, the situation continues to drag on."

The team confirmed to us some time ago that when the No.2 seat was confirmed, the reasons for the delay would be clear and easy to understand. This, I speculated, could point to either a simple contractual problem or a sponsorship delay - either way it would be straight forward for the F1 viewing public to understand.

Tiago is testing for the Midland team today and tomorrow at the private test at Silverstone, and despite the politics holding back an official confirmation the team want the benefit of his development feedback. "In spite of this obstacle, the team values Tiago's contributions and looks forward to being able to confirm him at the appropriate time," or sources continued. "Until then, mere formalities will not stand in the way of Tiago and the team continuing to work together with the aim of achieving improved results in 2006."

I don't know about you but I detect a distinct tone of frustration from the team. The fact that the word 'mere' was used suggests that whatever the issues are they are minor. This site, and I'm sure all Monteiro fans, would like to plead with all parties involved to resolve these 'mere formalities' to allow the team the best possible opportunities to prepare for the 2006 season. Please...

More on this if we get it.