McLaren boss Ron Dennis has said that some Formula One teams will struggle to keep going this year as recession blows in but most will weather the storm. McLaren told reporters attending the launch of the Mercedes-powered team's 2002 car that the grand prix teams will be last in and last out of a recession.
But Prost, one of 12 teams officially entered in the season which starts in Australia on March the 3rd, have been in receivership since November. Minardi, who now have sponsorship from Malaysia, almost went to the wall last year before aviation millionaire Paul Stoddart stepped in and saved them.
Jordan, one of the most commercially-minded teams in the paddock with high brand recognition and an entrepreneurial boss, have yet to confirm their title sponsor for 2002. Newcomers Toyota have been sparing little expense as they prepare for their grand prix debut in Melbourne.
Filed by Sinéad Kissane
