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F1 future in doubt says manager

Nov.20 (GMM) Sebastien Bourdais' manager has admitted he fears for the French driver's future on the formula one grid.

Nicolas Todt, who also handles Ferrari's Felipe Massa, acknowledged that despite a stronger finish to Bourdais' maiden 2008 campaign, the 29-year-old has not yet penned a contract to remain at Toro Rosso in 2009.

"It is a rather unpleasant period," said Todt, the son of the former Ferrari boss Jean Todt.

At Barcelona, Bourdais has this week been involved in what has been described as a test 'shootout' for a race seat with fellow 2009 Toro Rosso contender Takuma Sato.

The pair have been closely matched in terms of pace, but it is rumoured that Sato can bring to the Faenza based team a healthy purse of personal sponsorship.

Todt said the situation is difficult especially for the former F3000 champion and multiple Champ Car title winner Bourdais, whose "achievements are the envy of many drivers".

"It is correct that to be in November and not know what you will be doing next year is very unpleasant.

"Therefore our objective, whether he can be in formula one or not, is to clarify (the situation) as quickly as possible," Todt explained.

"At the moment, I am concentrating on formula one (for Bourdais). After that, we will see.

"In any case, I am not anxious. No matter what happens, Sebastien has a future at the highest levels of motor sport. Whether it is formula one or not, is another question," he said.

Written: Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:28:24