StefanGP expecting to compete in Bahrain

Despite the recent setback regarding the first test of the new Toyota-derived S-01 chassis, StefanGP remains upbeat about their chances of competing in Bahrain next month.

The Serbian-based team expect to be given the green light to join the series, following the admission by USF1 team principal Ken Anderson that they will not be ready for the start of the season. The FIA has made clear that the new teams must compete in every Grand Prix.

"If you are going to Bahrain you have to be packed by next Wednesday and we think we will be able to reach something by then,” team boss Zoran Stefanovic told Reuters. “We are waiting for something to happen because the time is very short and the deadline for Bahrain is approaching.”

Stefanovic went on to confirm that the team is close to securing the services of Jacques Villeneuve and Kazuki Nakajima.

“It’s not happened yet but everything except his signature had been done," Stefanovic said. "Probably in the next two or three days, we will be reaching some sort of an agreement."

The team recently cancelled the shakedown of the 2010 challenger due to being unable to secure a supply of tyres from Bridgestone.

Meanwhile, Adam Cooper reports that the FIA have despatched Charlie Whiting to USF1’s Charlotte base to assess the current situation and to determine if the team is in a position to compete in the short to medium term.