UpdateF1 >> Formula 1 News > Sutil says 'no talks' with Toyota

German would like 'top team'

Oct.15 (GMM) Adrian Sutil has counted himself out of the running to replace Ralf Schumacher at Toyota in 2008.

The German rookie has been impressive at Spyker this season, but he ruled out speculation that he is now set to step up with one of the best funded teams in formula one.

Two more Germans - Timo Glock and Nico Rosberg - are still in the running, but Sutil told the Cologne newspaper Express on Monday: "No, there are no negotiations with Toyota, but I would like to be with a top team.

"For this responsibility, I am ready."

Sutil, despite being under contract to Spyker for 2008, has even been mentioned among wilder speculation that he might replace Fernando Alonso at McLaren next year.

The 24-year-old, however, said he does not expect Mercedes-Benz to break with its recent tradition of not turning to German drivers.

"Mercedes is for all Germans definitely a dream, but so far a German driver has not played a part (there)," he added.

Sutil, a close friend of Lewis Hamilton, also said he will cross his fingers that his fellow rookie can wrap up the championship in Brazil on Sunday.

"I notice that Lewis is nervous and tense," he admitted, "but he is still there. He will do it."

Written: Tue, 16 Oct 2007 09:40:42