Friday June 16th, 2000

Team boss Eddie Jordan admitted on Friday that his team would need a better engine to compete at the top-level next season.

The Jordan team have struggled with their Mugen-supplied engine this season and are currently fifth in the constructors' championship with nine points from seven races.

But Jordan said that his team were looking for a new engine supplier for next year so the Silverstone-based outfit could challenge the likes of McLaren and Ferrari.

Jordan said: "It is pretty clear from this season's results that you need a top-level engine to compete at the very top of Formula One.

"If you want a realistic chance of winning a world title then I think it's quite obvious that you need a major manufacturer.

"We are talking to a number of manufacturers and our partners Mugen are aware of that."

Jordan refused to comment on any specific engine suppliers but admitted it was likely that his team would end their association with Mugen.

"We've had a lot of success with Mugen and they've got us to where we are but the indications are that the way forward is with a major manufacturer.

"Mugen, Hirotoshi Honda and myself have discussed this matter. Last year we were quick but not quick enough in real terms, so it could have been a distorted picture.

"We've tried to make everything lighter and up the game but we've suffered with electronic problems and we need to challenge the two teams in front."