Sato gives Jordan new hope
Japan’s Takuma Sato gave Eddie Jordan a vital multi-million euro boost by ending his rookie season by scoring his first points in front of his delirious countrymen today.
The 25-year-old finished fifth at Suzuka though the way he and the crowd celebrated it was as if he had won the race.
The two points ensured Jordan finished sixth in the Constructors’ Championship instead of eighth which will earn the team several million pounds in prize money under the secret Concorde Agreement which governs the sport.
“Getting sixth makes a big difference,” said Jordan, one of the few team bosses left trying to survive without the backing of a major manufacturer, after seeing his outfit move ahead of Jaguar and British American Racing.
“It wasn’t a great season, but it was a great ending and is worth a few million at least. This gives us respectability.
“Eighth is not somewhere where Jordan would like to be. We were sixth before and were fifth last year. Its been a tough battle in the midfield this season.”
Jordan admitted it was a nerve-wracking finale as Sato suffered a problem with his Honda engine.
“It was pretty nervous in the last few laps,” added the Irishman. “We told him to slow down but you hate taking somebody out of a rhythm.
“I have to admit I didn’t expect Takuma to come here and qualify seventh and finish fifth. He drove a perfect race and showed the talent I’ve been telling everyone about. The crowd went wild for him.”
Sato was engulfed by his Jordan mechanics, many of whom have dyed their hair blond, and carried on their shoulders along the home straight with the crowd cheering.
“That was incredible,” said Sato, who had started from his highest place on the grid. “One point was what I was after but I’ve scored two.
“The crowds were unbelievable, waving at me on every single lap and I saw everything!
“It was great and I appreciate the fans. This is one of the best feelings in my life and I’m so happy to score two points for the team.”
Sato’s season-ending flourish could well ensure that he stays with Jordan in 2003 after a maiden campaign that has featured several crashes.
The 2001 British F3 champion does have a contract for next year but there has been speculation that he could be released especially with Jordan switching their engine supply from Japanese car giant Honda to Cosworth.
Eddie Irvine, who finished ninth for Jaguar, has been linked with a return to his former team but refused afterwards to divulge his future whereabouts.
