LONDON The struggling Minardi team, which have yet to secure an engine deal, have vowed to be on the grid at the start of the 2001 Formula One season.

Its founder and team boss Giancarlo Minardi told the BBC on Wednesday that the team will definitely be racing this year.

"I have no intention of commenting on reports until the negotiations we are involved in are definite," said Minardi.

"What we are sure of, however, is that Minardi will be at the start of the championship in 2001.

"We are doing everything in our power to come to a solution because time is money and Grands Prix dates don't move."

The Italian team have been unable to finalize sponsors or their driver lineup for the new season starting in Australia at the beginning of March.

(Reuter)