UpdateF1 >> Formula 1 News > STR promised stability

Mateschitz backs team

Jul.1 (GMM) Toro Rosso will remain "stable" for the 2009 season, despite constant rumours that the Faenza based formula one team is being sold.

Red Bull magnate Dietrich Mateschitz earlier announced that he is looking to offload his 50 per cent share due to the impending end of the 'customer car' era.

The news threw into doubt not only the funding stream guaranteed by the Austrian billionaire, but also the team's links to Mateschitz's senior outfit, from whom Toro Rosso sources its actual chassis.

But while admitting that the rumours "did have an effect" on STR, which is also currently owned by Gerhard Berger, team boss Franz Tost said on Tuesday that he has received an important assurance from Mateschitz.

"The message from Dietrich Mateschitz is clear, that for 2009, everything will remain stable, not just in terms of employment but also in terms of the budget.

"Then, from 2010 we will see what happens. At the moment the team is stable," Tost added.

He also said he has been happy with the performance of both race drivers this year, amid speculation about the future of the team's Champ Car racing recruit in 2008,
Frenchman Sebastien Bourdais.

"Bourdais had a fantastic start in Melbourne and he has also had some other good races. He is improving and we can expect to see more good races from him," Tost said.

Written: Wed, 02 Jul 2008 09:35:29