Ford Engines have announced that they have decided to supply Stewart Grand Prix exclusively, as of next season. Martin Whitaker, Sport Director of Ford's Europe Division, said in a statement: "We are racing to win, and not to just compete. If we show our full commitment to one team we have a better chance of reaching our goal - racing and to win the World Championship."

This decision leaves Minardi with no engine contract for next season. The Italian team is currently using the older Zetec-R Ford V10 customer engine.