February 19, 2002
More driver deals are being concluded as the hours tick by, but it still doesn't stop the constant speculation as to who will end up where? in 2002!

The quick drivers are steadily finding their new homes for the new season.

Jason Smith has seemed to be the key to the 'merry-go-round' over the last 24 hours, and his signing with KRB should see the rest of the field take shape pretty quickly.

The fiercest rumour circulating at the moment is the apparent rift between Artur Costa and Mapes-VO.

It is thought that Mapes-VO has an 'agreement' with Costa which was made before the recent testing session at Magny Cours, but that Costa is reportedly not going to honour his agreement. The GPVWC Press office has also learnt that Costa may be in receipt of up to 8 contracts from various teams in the paddock!...which may be the reason he is tempted to go elsewhere?

Paul Wallace, cousin of GPVWC Admin Dan Lawrence, is thought to have been approached by a British team. No other details are known, although it is rumoured a deal has been laid out and is ready for both parties to sign.

West, title sponsor of Hernj-Roaldo, are thought to be furious with the Dutch based team. Team Manager, Roald Reurink, is reported to have approached West asking for more cash for the 2002 season, an approach which West will not accept.

Jonk GP are set to launch their 2002 car in the next 24 hours. This news comes hours after the team apparently mailed GPVWC Admin, stating that they wouldn't be able to honour their launch date.

As is commonly known, If a team misses it's launch date it is automatically fined £100,000 from it's budget....something which is thought to have provoked Jonk GP Team Manager, Joost Jonk, into hastily preparing the launch which can be viewed on this site in the coming hours.