Irvine fails to gain Jordan drive

Formula One could be without its most colourful character this season after Ulster born driver Eddie Irvine failed in his bid to sign with Jordan.

Thirty-seven-year-old Irvine had been in talks with the team, which had brought him into F1 10 years ago, but today he revealed that they were unable to agree a contract.

It had been anticipated that Irvine would team up with Italian driver Giancarlo Fisichella at Jordan after Jaguar refused to renew his contract with them. However, Irvine said that while he felt certain in July that he would race for Jordan, the team preferred to sign a driver who would be prepared to assist with funding.

In an interview with a national newspaper, Irvine said: "It's a shame because I really would have enjoyed the rule changes, especially single-lap qualifying.

"It's a huge shame. I was really looking forward to driving for Jordan this season. Driving alongside Giancarlo Fisichella would have been fantastic. I would have been working with a driver I really respect.

"I have always had a lot of affection for Jordan as a team. They gave me my big break in 1993 and I thought I could end my career with them."

The outspoken and often temperamental Eddie Irvine added celebrity and personality to a sport driven by money and technology. His pitlane spats with rival drivers and growing reputation as a playboy soaked up newspaper headlines – moreso than for his driving.

He had his best season in 1999 when he carried the expectations of Ferrari after Michael Schumacher was hospitalised for 10 weeks after breaking his leg. By the end of season, Irvine had finished as runner up to Schumacher. Throughout his career to date, he has taken part in 147 races and notched up three victories. But with houses in Milan, Miami and Dublin Bay, the millionaire driver will have plenty of options for the future – whether that will be in motorsport remains to be seen.

(GMcG)