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Toyota Likely to Terminate Trulli Deal

With Toyota clearly looking to renew its drivers lineup completely, Formula One veteran Jarno Trulli is still bullish of his chances to still make the grid next year. The Italian is currently in his last year of contract with the Cologne based team and will likely have to find another team to continue his F1 career in 2010.

On Friday morning, when talking to the media about the team's prospects for the upcoming season, team president John Howett confirmed that the lack of results this year will enforce some drastic changes in their 2010 roster.

I would say it is unlikely that he will be with us next year. That is my genuine feeling. I don't like to say that, because they also have careers, and I think he has done a great job for us. We have tried to find a landing position and so far we haven't. But I think it is very unlikely,” said Howett to the media at Suzuka.

Under the circumstances, Trulli is now beginning to be linked with a move back to Renault. However, with a multitude of spots open for next year – 4 new teams, plus several doubtful spots in the current teams – Trulli doesn't seem too affected by Toyota's decision.

At the moment, to be honest, I don't want to talk too much about the situations because there are lots of rumours and stuff about drivers and teams. I have some options and also we need to see what about Toyota. But in general I am optimistic. Let's wait and see,” Trulli was quoted as saying to British magazine Autosport.

Toyota also decided not to pick Timo Glock's extension option for 2010, which means both drivers currently racing for the Japanese manufacturer might have to find another employer for next season. On the waiting list for grabbing a Toyota seat next year are Robert Kubica and even Kimi Raikkonen, for whom Howett admitted his interest.
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