Jordan Grand Prix, founded in 1991 by flamboyant Irishman Eddie Jordan, has brought colour and a sense of humour to Formula One. In only a decade in the business, the team has also produced impressive results, most notably in the last two years when top level funding and a first rate engine supplier have resulted in three victories and points scored in 20 out of 24 races. *
In 1998 the team broke the top four strangle-hold of Ferrari, Williams, McLaren and Benetton which had stood since 1989; in 1999 Jordan went one better - beating two former world champions, Williams and Benetton, to leave only the might of Ferrari and McLaren un-challenged.
Jordan Grand Prix is based in England at a purpose built factory across the road from the Silverstone circuit in Northamptonshire. The team's wind tunnel is housed in nearby Brackley, five miles from Jordan's headquarters. From just 43 employees in its first season, the team has grown to employ over 200 staff, whilst its budgets have increased 800 per cent over the nine years. Jordan now enjoys financial backing from title sponsor Benson and Hedges, support from a further 19 sponsors and official suppliers, plus equity investment from investment bank Warburg, Pincus ** and an engine deal with Mugen-Honda. Such support has enabled Jordan to invest in the very latest technologies necessary to gain a competitive edge in Formula One.
To complete its package for the 2000 season, Jordan will fight for the World Championship with an international driver line up; Germany's Heinz-Harald Frentzen, who brought Jordan two victories and an impressive 54 points in 1999, is joined by Italy's rising star, Jarno Trulli. All the ingredients are in place for success; but the sense of humour still remains.
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