Future for Saab-team still uncertain

If the Saab-team Dealer Sport will see the light of day during the Swedish Touring Car Championship season still remains to be seen. The team has completed a couple of tests on Swedish tracks before christmas and is reported to be headed abroad shortly for more tests. But team manager Jan Warnestad is unsure if the tests will be in preparation for STCC 2009.
“We have to secure the economical parts before we can finalize the required details,” said Warnestad to Kristianstadsbladet.

Previous STCC race winner Jens Edman has driven the cars during the test and the team would like to keep him if they get on the grid this season.

“It has worked well with Edman in the past and if we get on the grid we would like to sign him,” said Warnestad.

The S2000 Saab 93 has been completed and is in full race specification. But the team is unable to say when they can get the final decision.

“It is impossible to say now. But we are optimistic for the future and we think that it is going to work out. The building of the car is continuing, but perhaps not at the same speed as before,” said Warnestad.

Saab is one of the car manufacturers that have suffered worst from the current economical situation. GM, the owners of Saab, has recently even said that Saab must be sold. While Dealer Sport is not going to be a official Saab-team, the situation of Saab is important for them.

“Of course, we have to see how Saab gets through this. We are not completely dependent of them, but they are an important partner,” said Warnestad.