Formula One news

Montagny pressure on Ralf

As Ralf Schumacher continues to struggle for form and his contract renewal with Toyota hangs in the balance the team's test driver Franck Montagny is being mentioned as a possible replacement.

"Really, you have to ask him but the fundamental issue is the front end of the car and the tyre grip at the front and getting the car balanced and giving enough front potential to give him something he can use with the style he has. We are gradually improving that," said Toyota chief John Howett about Ralf's poor form. 

When asked what Montagny's chances of a drive were, he added, "That probably depends on next year. We have two race drivers and he's the test driver and third driver in the team and that's the status that we support. The issue really is whether we continue the contract with Ralf next year, which we are discussing with him and obviously then, if not, what we would do in the future. But the priority at the moment is to focus on this year, improving the performance and giving Ralf the maximum opportunity with the car."

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