DECEMBER 19, 2000

Prost keen on Murchinson as future driver

PROST GRAND PRIX are set to hand Singapore driver Christian Murchinson a path into Formula One, but only if he provides the team with $2 million.

The Guyancourt-based team are searching for new backers after losing major sponsor Gauloises Blondes and have targeted Australian-based Murchinson, who is not directly backed by any company, as a provider of necessary funds.

Murchinson has yet to drive in Formula 3000 but Prost are offering him a path into the series, which is naturally followed by a move into Formula One, if he can find a company to pay Prost the $2 million asking price.

"Formula 3000 is just a step away from Formula One," Prost said. "Looking at his background and his test results for our team, I think Christian has the potential to make it in motor racing. But first he has to get into F3000.

"When you think of the kind of exposure he will get from being with Prost, getting involved for just $2 million is a real bargain."

Murchinson was runner-up in Australia's premier single-seater championship, Formula Holden, this year.