If Jordan wants to keep Ralf Schumacher they will have to pay for him. Willie Weber, his manager, has stated that the negotiations are in a critical state. It could well be that the team has to decide between Damon Hill and Schumacher. Hill is Benson and Hedges favourite.

Benetton will also be using a long wheelbase car, lengthened with about 5 cm, this weekend. Wurz stated: "It improved the front-end without compromising the rear. It was far nicer to drive. The car used to be snappy, but now it is much more predictable."