Jackie Stewart addressed latest speculations that his driver, Rubens Barrichello, might move to Ferrari next year, saying such move would be a mistake for the Brazilian.

"If he was offered a job at McLaren, he should grab it, but it's not in his best interests to go to Ferrari," said the former World Champion, "There is only one driver there - Michael Schumacher - and he totally dominates the team. Rubens is vulnerable because he is a sensitive person and it is going to be very tough for him if he goes there. I understand the intoxication with Ferrari because I have been where he is - but resisted it for very good reasons."

Stewart also said he would like to see Barrichello stay at Stewart. He also said, on a different occasion, that Eddie Irvine is a better driver than Michael Schumacher - perhaps indicating that, indeed, Irvine is set to move to the Stewart\Jaguar-Ford team next year. "Eddie is technically better than Michael Schumacher but, perhaps not ultimately quite as quick," said the Scot.

Irvine himself refused to deny or confirm reports which claimed that he has already signed a deal with Ford. Barrichello, on the other hand, denied that he has already signed with any team for next year. "I haven't signed anything yet," he said. "There's very little I can say about it. So many things have already been said in the Italian and Brazilian press that it has done a little damage."

Another name mentioned lately is Mika Salo, the Finn also speculated to sign for either Ford or Ferrari, with Sauber also reportedly making him an offer. Salo did not reveal what his intentions are, but said: "I haven't signed anything yet, but I will before Hungary in case I screw it all up there!"