Alesi eyes team boss job

UPDATE It was announced today by Direxiv that Jean Alesi will join the company as Senior Executive Director. See Hot News page. 12/08/05 Former grand prix winner Jean Alesi says he is still involved in planning for a 'b' McLaren team.

Currently in the DTM championship, the 41-year-old Frenchman would reportedly line up as 'sporting director' of the theoretical Mercedes-powered team, that would be backed by Japan's 'Direxiv'.

''I would very much like to be a team boss,'' former Ferrari and Sauber driver Alesi told Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport 'paper at the Bologna Motor Show this week.

''It would be an unique experience!'' He warned, however, that the prospective 2007 debut is by no means certain. ''It appeals to me a lot.

''It would be extraordinary!''

So, as boss, who would Jean put at the wheel? Alex Wurz and Pedro de la Rosa are surely front runners, as non-racing McLaren drivers. ''Michael Schumacher and Kimi Raikkonen,'' Jean Alesi smiled.

''But seriously, the thing that is missing in formula one is emotion, is passion. Someone like Valentino Rossi should be there — I really hope he moves to four wheels.'