Wednesday 27 August at 19:17 : Toro Rosso has confirmed "talks" with the Japanese driver Takuma Sato, but would not back reports that the former Super Aguri racer is to be evaluated for a 2009 seat at next month's Jerez test.

It is already known that Sebastien Buemi will be tested at the southern Spanish circuit, but the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport this week said 31-year-old Sato is also to get a run in the Ferrari-powered single seater.

"We have had talks but there is nothing to confirm yet," a spokeswoman insisted.

Sato's manager told Reuters that they would welcome the opportunity to test with Toro Rosso.

"We'd be delighted," said Andrew Gilbert-Scott.