Shortly after naming Sebastien Buemi as racing driver for 2009, all attention was switched to the “fight for survival” between Takuma Sato and Bourdais. Several media reports claimed Sato was favorite to take the second seat for at least 2 reasons: he had secured enough sponsorship money for a full campaign in Formula 1 and he had more experience in driving an F1 single-seater than Bourdais.
On the other hand, Bourdais was 4-time champion of the Champ Car World Series and had managed to finally get the grips on his Toro Rosso car in the final stages of last season. The Frenchman also had another ace in his sleeve in the person of manager Nicolas Todt, son of former Ferrari boss Jean.
According to Bourdais manager, the two parties are still negotiating the terms of the new contract. However, Swiss magazine Speedweek has revealed earlier today that the Faenza-based team have already decided on keeping Bourdais for yet another season, giving him the chance to prove himself in Formula 1 once again. The news could be regarded as credible source, as it is linked with STR owner Dieter Mateschitz. Also, it was one of the first publications to announce Buemi's signing with Toro Rosso earlier this month.
Team's website has already shown Bourdais as Buemi's teammate for 2009.
Bourdais scored an incredible 7th place at his very debut in Formula 1 last year, after which he failed to keep the pace with younger teammate Sebastian Vettel. “Le Seb” ended the season with 4 points in his pocket, ranking a disappointing 17th place. However, the Frenchman started showing some good progress in the last few races, especially in China.
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