Jeddah Corniche Circuit

SAUDI ARABIAN GRAND PRIX

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September 19, 2004
Nine o' clock in the morning. While normal people are still drinking coffee and reading their newspapers, a lot of people were standing at the Mapes-VO motorhome as the press conference was about to begin.

There were rumours going around on a possible new Mapes-VO driver and since Peter van Oostende didn't deny those rumours it was very well possible that Mapes-VO would announce a new driver.

The Mapes-VO spokeswoman and manager Peter van Oostende came forward on the small podium and the spokeswoman started talking.

"The rumours are all true! Mapes-VO did sign the rising star you were all talking about. Mapes-VO is glad to announce that Zlatko Bratonja will drive for team the remaining 2004 races and a full year in 2005."

Zlatko also came on the podium and stood besides Peter and was clearly enjoying the situation. Nobody could miss the happiest face in the paddock. "Zlatko showed some impressive driving in another championship Mapes-VO is also involved in, so Mapes-VO was very eager to sign him. Zlatko was also very enthusiastic about a 2005 drive and the fact he could already start in 2004 was even better.

Zlatko already did a seat fitting in the Mapes-VO factory and he will be present in Barcelona to test for the team and get used to the car. Thank you."

After the Mapes-VO spokeswoman was done with the announcement, it was Peter van Oostende's turn:

"This is a great day for the team. It's quite clear we are struggling this year to have a full line-up at all times, so it's great we could sign Zlatko as new driver. He really comes at the right time. I already saw Zlatko drive races in a different league and he sure is a fast driver. He can still get 2nd in the championship over there! I am sure Zlatko will be able to score the points needed for the constructors championship and back up Mikko in the drivers championship.

Zlatko will be present in Barcelona and show what he can do in the Mapes-VO. Now we will hear what he has to say himself."

Next up it was Zlatko Bratonja who spoke some words to the gathered press:

"I must say that I am extremely happy with the opportunity of driving for such a well-supported and highly competitive team.

I hope that I can help the Mapes-VO Honda team claim the 2004 championship and to support Mikko Jakonen in winning the 2004 driver championship.

See you all soon on track!"