By Phil Giles
October 21 2003

Is Eddie about to sell out? There are rumours buzzing the net that Roger Penske is in negotiations to buy out the 50.1% share not owned by the new Irish investors brokered by Merrion Capital.

Reports say that Jordan would not have been able to continue in the sport after the Japanese Grand Prix, if Merrion hadn't have bought a share in the team.  Ian Phillips, team manager at Jordan apparently told GP2003.com “Without that, we would have had to close on Monday after Suzuka."

Jordan haven't denied this story or confirmed that any quote was made, despite our asking.  Penske has requested that an audit of Jordan's finances is undertaken.  He is acting on behalf of a group of American investors said to be headed by Indianapolis Speedway boss Tony George.

If the rumours are true, Eddie will have to step down and the team would no doubt undergo a complete transformation.  Penske's links to Ilmor could see the cars run with Mercedes engines next year and Gil de Ferran has been touted as one of the new drivers.

Reports elsewhere however show that Jordan although struggling is still very much in control.  "It's never as much fun when you're not doing well," Eddie said to the  Daily Telegraph. 

'When you reach the edge and risk falling over it becomes distressful and that's certainly to be avoided.  I've no thoughts of retiring but Formula One might retire me because the manufacturers are making it very difficult for the private teams.'