Alguersuari says 2011 Toro Rosso deal ‘100 per cent’

Jaime Alguersuari has revealed he has “no idea” why the recently published FIA entry list does not feature his name.

But the Spaniard is quoted by the sports newspaper Marca as insisting he will be on the 2011 grid next March at the wheel of a Toro Rosso.

The Red Bull-owned team has announced on more than one occasion that Alguersuari, 20, and his Swiss teammate Sebastien Buemi are staying put for 2011.

And even after the publication of the double ‘TBA’ on the entry list alongside Toro Rosso’s name, official team sources clarified that the driver lineup is not in doubt.

Asked why he was left off the list, Alguersuari – a keen amateur DJ – joked: “Because I’m thinking about leaving F1 for music.

“I am with Toro Rosso, for sure.  I don’t know why people are playing this game — I am in formula one, 100 per cent.”

He said his goal for 2011 is to “be among the top ten in every race”.

“I want to keep doing the work we have been doing and above all to finish seventh or eighth in the constructors’ championship,” added Alguersuari.

“The team and I gave everything this year.  We didn’t have the car for any more.  On a personal level I’m happy with myself and I hope that in 2011 we can keep improving,” he said.

On his goals beyond 2011, Alguersuari told La Vanguardia: “I want to be with Red Bull (Racing) and I’d like to be there in two years.”

He admits that “depends on how next season goes”.

On team orders being legalised for next season, Alguersuari commented: “I see it as positive because each team needs to look out for its own business.”

As for his tip for the 2011 title, he admitted: “I sense that McLaren will have a great car next year, I don’t know why.  I think Hamilton can win.

“Ferrari’s (car) will also be great.  I see the title between Fernando and Lewis and Red Bull surely also there and very competitive,” added Alguersuari.

 © RIF | GMM