The KL Minardi squad is expected to announce a new engine deal in the coming weeks with Paul Stoddart organizing what is thought to be a 30 million dollar deal with Cosworth. While speculation was that a Ferrari deal was possible, the Australian entrepreneur hinted that their 2003 contender would more than likely be powered by Ford instead. Niki Lauda, head of the Cosworth performance division, also confirmed that talks were underway but nothing was signed as yet.

“We're negotiating,” the Austrian said. “But nothing is signed. If Paul Stoddart has the money, there's nothing against the deal.”

The new engine deal is the number one priority at this stage with their driver line-up on the back burner for now. However, it seems to be more fact than fiction that ex-Arrows driver, Jos Verstappen will sign with the Faenza based squad, the new engine deal a major plus in the proposal.

“Look at Arrows with their Cosworth engine. Okay, the chassis will have to be adjusted to the new power source. More power effects the whole aerodynamic package, gearbox and suspension,” the Dutchman said on his official website. “Minardi has a good chassis. I have spoken with Greg Wheeler and he is very positive. I am sure that Minardi can do a good job with a new engine."

Meanwhile, over the course of the Italian Grand Prix weekend, representatives of Ford were hosted in the Jordan motorhome. Niel Golightly, Executive Vice-President, Public Affairs and Martin Whitaker, Director of Motorsport, both from Ford of Europe were in Monza on a fact-finding visit to get to know the Jordan team and a few other F1 faces.
 

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