Veteran Jordan driver Jean Alesi announced his retirement from Formula One today, saying that Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix would be his last.
The 37-year-old Frenchman was speaking hours after Jordan owner Eddie Jordan announced the signing of Japanese driver Takuma Sato at a news conference in Tokyo.
"I retire. I will not race next year," said Alesi. "For the moment it is not completely clear what I'm going to do. For sure I will not drive F1 any more."
Alesi, who will be competing in his 201st grand prix at Suzuka on Sunday, could now make the switch to the American CART series.
However, Eddie Jordan says he has not given up hope of persuading his close friend to stay on with the team in a new capacity.
"I would like him to stay on as a teacher. He has a huge knowledge and could help with testing and evaluating," said Jordan.