An Arab driver for F1?

Reports that Lebanese 'A1 grand prix' driver Khalil Beschir may wind up in the formula one paddock next year have been denied. A story on the Lebanese 'Libansport' publication claimed that the 23-year-old had signed a three year deal to test for the Honda 'B' team.

Beschir, who also drove in the European F3000 championship this year, allegedly has a connection with Gil de Ferran, sporting director of the Honda works team.

The report said Beschir would test in 2006 'to let him be ready to fight on the 2007 … grid'. Lebanon's A1 Team, however, issued a statement insisting that Beschir 'cannot enter into … any outside commitments' while under contract.

''Mr. Beschir does aspire to be the first Arab driver in formula one,'' the statement agreed, ''but (he) will not undertake any extra commitments without the agreement of A1 Team Lebanon.''