December 23, 2003
EIRE team boss Willy Ponissi and Peter Grooff were present at the teams Italian base to confirm that the Dutch star has signed a Test contract for 2004.

EIRE team Manager Will Ponissi held a press conference this morning at the team HQ in Rodano to announce the singing of a new test driver. The Irish team manager proudly introduced Dutch rookie Peter Grooff, who will be helping the team developing the car during the 2004 season.

When interviewed, Grooff declared:

"I am very happy to join the EIRE team, I can't wait to do my first kilometres in the new car! I want to thank William Ponissi for this wonderful chance he has given me. I have always dreamt to drive in Formula One and I will do my very best to show my true worth for the team."

Grooff, 22 years old, comes from Amsterdam, and has been racing since 1996, although he's at his first racing experience.

"I can't wait to start the 2004 season!" were his last words before leaving for some picture shooting.

Ponissi so far announced 3 members of the expected 5-men-strong lineout: Peter Grooff now joins Australian Scott Whiteman (lead driver) and Ponissi himself as tester.

Press and other teams are really interested now on the identity of the 2nd raceseat driver, although the team was really shut-mouthed about him.

Rumours say that the announcement of a deal might come before Christmas. Ponissi also announced a "shock" about the 3rd tester, or at least someone testing the new E03 car.