Motor Racing: Jordan's driver delay

JORDAN'S PLAN to announce their driver line-up for next season at this weekend's Italian Grand Prix have been put back a fortnight because of the team's continuing contractual dispute over the services of Ralf Schumacher.

Damon Hill is due to be confirmed for another year but Jordan want to name both their drivers at one presentation and they may have to find a replacement for Schumacher, who is intent on joining Williams. The contract case is scheduled to be heard in the High Court today.

Schumacher, ordered not to challenge Hill for the lead at the Belgian Grand Prix 10 days ago, insisted after the race he was determined to move on.

Jordan, thought to be paying Hill around pounds 3.5m a year, say they cannot afford another hefty salary and could turn to a driver who brings in money.

Hill's former team-mate at Arrows, the Brazilian Pedro Diniz, has the backing of his father's supermarket millions, while Tyrrell's Japanese, Toranosuke Takagi, generates a substantial sponsorship package.