The Minardi team have unveiled their 1997 car the M 197, the follow-up of last year's M 195. Ukyo Katayama, last year with Tyrrell, will be driving the new car together with Jarno Trulli. The 33 year old Katayama has driven 78 Grands Prix so far while the 22 year old Italian Trulli is new to Formula One. Minardi will use Bridgestone tyres this year and a completely revised Hart V8 engine with air valves. The team will also have more financial capabilities now that Mild Seven is their sponsor.

The Minardi M 197 courtesy Mild Seven/Minardi Team Home Page © 1997 Japan Tobacco

Heinz-Harald Frentzen had his first test in the new Williams-Renault today. The German did 60 laps with a best time of 1m 19.40s in the FW 19 before he spun off..

The new Sauber will be presented on February 10. You can follow it live on the internet at the Sauber site.

The Canadian National newspaper (Glob and Mail) released today says that the Grand Prix Formula One and Indy car are going to be exempt from tobacco laws. The Canadian health minister, David Dingwall, said that he will not put international sporting events at risk of being lost and will exempt them from any of his tobacco laws. He specifically said the Canadian Grand Prix will be exempt.

provided by Mr. King from Canada