Martin Whitaker, Director of Ford Racing in Europe, confirmed today that his company, who recently acquired Stewart Grand Prix, has made an offer to Ferrari's Michael Schumacher. "I would be doing my job badly if I did not try and recruit the best driver in the world. You can build the best car in the world but it is useless if you do not have the best driver in the world. So Ford must speak with Michael Schumacher," he told German press.

Willi Weber, Schumacher's business manager, refused to comment on whether Schumacher is considering this offer, but said: "Michael gets many offers from many teams. Right now he is recovering from his injuries and there is no point in speculating about such matters."

Ford also made a previous offer to Mika Hakkinen, but the reigning World Champion looks set to stay with McLaren next season.