• 2010 season

Stefan GP on stand-by should others fail

Serbian-based Stefan Grand Prix has confirmed it is pushing for a 14th team in Formula One, allowing it to enter without waiting for one of the existing outfits to pull out.

"We think this is the best way to solve the problem," Stefan GP owner Zoran Stefanovic said. "We are absolutely aware that the system of granting entries is through the FIA. So we are not expecting someone to give us an entry immediately."

Stefanovic said he had support from Toyota, which was prepared to make its 2010 car available, as well as the Serbian government. Toyota protege Kazuki Nakajima, who drove for Williams last season, has been mentioned as a likely driver should the team get a last-minute call to action.

Stefan GP's chances are not as remote as they might seem. There are ongoing doubts over two of the new teams - US F1 and Campos - who, despite bullish rhetoric, are considered dubious starters for the opening race of the season in Bahrain on March 14.

The team is believed to have sent some advance freight to Bahrain in case it gets the go-ahead, but Stefanovic made clear no cars or crew would follow unless a place on the grid was confirmed.

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