As Formula 1 gets closer and closer to Bahrain, most teams are finished in terms of their driver line-up, although Campos, Renault and Toro Rosso still have to confirm their second driver. However, it seems that USF1 is in more difficulty, as it to date has not confirmed either of its drivers. Many of the current drivers are already with other teams, so it leaves the team with a dilemma: Do they get rookies, experienced or pay-drivers?

Many of the experienced drivers are already signed up for next season. However, drivers such as Pedro de la Rosa, Nick Heidfeld, Jacques Villeneuve and Alex Wurz may be willing to join. However, Peter Windsor has already said that many of these drivers are not in consideration for the posts. To be honest, this could be a big mistake. Bringing on at least one experienced driver is essential for a startup team. Lotus and Virgin have already gone down this route, and will definitely help them start off.

There are many rookies to consider, such as James Rossiter and JR Hildebrand. Hildebrand was part of the young driver testing session in December, and drove for Force India. He was in the midfield in terms of lap times, but steadily improved across the 3 days. However, Windsor has told the official F1 website that they are likely to only bring on one rookie driver. This inevitably means considering one pay driver.

The favourite for the job here is José María López, an Argentinian touring car driver, who reportedly brings $8m in sponsorship with him. He has previous F1 experience, having tested an F1 car in 2004 and 2006. However, he was dropped from the Renault young driver scheme in 2006, after showing poor form in other competitions. If he is signed, it will be certainly because of his sponsorship money.

Without an experienced driver, USF1 could be in serious trouble. The rookie drivers may not be able to prove themselves, and without a pay driver, the team may fold. The driver line-up, in my opinion, is crucial to USF1′s survival. Whether they will make it to the grid, and show us their driver line-up, we will have to wait and see.