Jordan to extend Toyota deal

UPDATE This rumor is upgraded to 'strong' today. Word in the Nurburgring paddock is that Toyota is close to renewing its customer engine deal with Jordan. Although Ferrari talks came to naught, speculation had linked the 'Midland' owned team with Cosworth or Renault for the 2006 grand prix season. Toyota's team president John Howett, though, told Autosport that he is considering Jordan's 'request' about what a new engine contract might look like. And he said: ''We have submitted an initial proposal … but if they decide no, they have another offer. 'If they are happy, then fine. I think every one needs to decide quickly because of designs for next year.'' 05/09/05 Will grand prix outfit Jordan/Midland still be powered by Toyota next season? Managing director Colin Kolles revealed that the Alex Shnaider-owned outfit negotiated with Ferrari until the Prancing Horse penned a Red Bull deal. ''We have headed down a different road,'' he said at Barcelona. Although pleased with the Toyota collaboration, Kolles revealed that he is contemplating 'three options' – including the Japanese marque – for 2006. ''Actually we are very content (with Toyota),'' he insisted. ''But we know in this game that everything is an option.'' According to speculation, Cosworth and Renault are top of Jordan's engine 'option' pile.