Saturday September 8th, 2001

Minardi boss Paul Stoddart is looking to reach an agreement with Malaysian carmaker Proton to supply engines to the small Italian outfit in the future.

Minardi announced recently they will be powered by Asiatech engines in 2002 with an option to continue with the Asian company in 2003, but Stoddart has admitted he is aiming to secure a deal with Proton that will see the Malaysian manufacturer compete in Formula One for the first time.

"I had the opportunity to visit the Proton plant on Thursday and I was impressed with what I saw," Stoddart told the Malay Mail newspaper. "I am looking at the possibility of working together with a Malaysian company to develop an engine for Formula One, or, more specifically, for Minardi.

"There's so much this country can offer Formula One and I am truly amazed at the potential available here."

Minardi recently secured an sponsorship deal with Magnum Corporation Berhad, who operate four-digit number betting in Malaysia, and also, Malaysian driver Alex Yoong will make his Grand Prix debut with Minardi at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix.

Published at 14:25:54 GMT

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