Formula One boss Eddie Jordan predicted his newly appointed driver Ralph Firman would be Rookie of the Year in 2003.
Speaking alongside Firman at a launch in London Jordan also stated the Briton had not paid to get the drive with his team this season.
Jordan has said throughout the winter that the partner to Italy's GiancarloFisichella would have to bring sponsorship to his Silverstone-based outfit.
Brazil's Felipe Massa was favourite to land the drive because he supposedlyhad the necessary Stg£3million backing but Firman's appointment was confirmedyesterday on a three-year deal.
"Ralph has been a professional driver for the past five years and that willcontinue this year," said Jordan. "This is an employer and employeerelationship.
"Ralph has been able to introduce to Jordan Grand Prix commercial opportunities but that was not conditional on him driving for us.
"Ralph is not bringing any money, we are paying him. We were in a positionover the winter where we were looking for a commercial driver, but thingschanged.
"Ralph has won in every category he has been in and I am confident that hewill shine this year. I believe he can be Rookie of the Year and one of thestars of the year.
"He is new to F1, but he is a very mature racing driver. He knows what it islike to have had to struggle and I am sure that will help him cope this year."
Jordan admitted that Firman's Anglo-Irish background - he has an Englishfather and Irish mother - would help them sponsorship wise.
And Jordan announced a further boost to his team today with Benson & Hedgesincreasing their backing of the team.
The cigarette giant will act as principal sponsor next season in a reputedStg£15million deal that ensures the team's survival.
PA