Benetton boss Flavio Briatore has revealed it is ‘‘50-50’’ as to whether either Giancarlo Fisichella or Jarno Trulli will drive for the team next season.
Fisichella has only been offered a one-year contract for next season by Renault, the engine suppliers who have bought out Benetton, in contrast to Jordan who have tempted the Italian with a three-year deal.
Should Fisichella, now a free agent as the option on his present agreement with Benetton which expired at midnight Wednesday and was not taken up by Renault decide to leave, Trulli would take up the seat vacated by the 28-year-old.
Fisichella and manager Gianpaolo Matteucci were due to hold talks with the influential Briatore yesterday afternoon, but those have been put on hold until after this weekend’s Hungarian Grand Prix.
‘‘We are busy concentrating on the race, so we will talk together with Giancarlo probably on Monday or Tuesday,’’ revealed Briatore.
‘‘Giancarlo is a nice guy and a good driver. We have to see what’s best for him and best for the team, but money is not an issue.
‘‘Jarno is also a good driver, so it’s 50-50 between them. We will see what happens.’’
Fisichella, currently in his fourth year with Benetton, has stated he would like to stay with the team, but realises he may have to move on as it is believed he would like a two-year deal from Renault.
‘‘I don’t know where my future lies,’’ said Fisichella.
‘‘We are still in discussions with the team.
‘‘I’ve a few options, and it’s my decision as to where I go. My target is to stay with the team and I’m confident that will happen.’’