Jean Alesi got his first experience of Jordan's EJ11 in a short test at Silverstone yesterday, the Frenchman taking to the wheel of the former Heinz-Harald Frentzen Jordan as part of a 50km "shakedown" allowed by the FIA to all teams in advance of this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix.

The test was permitted despite the testing ban that has been in place since formula one went on holiday after the German Grand Prix.

Alesi completed just six outings for a total of 18 laps of the Silverstone national circuit but was nonetheless pleased.

"I've had a busy and productive day as there was a lot to learn about the car," said the former Prost pilot. "Although we could only complete a total of 50 kilometres as it was a shakedown, we made some good progress.

"We mainly concentrated on my seat and driving position to make me feel comfortable in the car and it was good to work with my car crew and engineers so we could get to know each other. The EJ11 feels very good to drive so I'm really looking forward to the Hungarian Grand Prix to experience its true potential."

Team boss Eddie Jordan said he was surprised at how quickly Alesi had adapted to unfamiliar machinery. "Jean has settled into the EJ11 very quickly," he said.

"A fabulous attribute of Jean's is he gives 100 per cent at all times and we want to give him a car that can enable him to demonstrate his talent."

Alesi's first chance to prove that will come this weekend at the Hungarian GP, the first of the five remaining races Alesi has, according to Jordan, been hired for.

Alesi, though, appears to believe otherwise and yesterday told French television stations he had signed for the team for the 2002 season also.

"Eddie called me to ask me if I was available until the end of the season," said Alesi.

"In fact, I signed for 2002 as well. I am racing for Jordan for the last five grands prix of 2001 but I will also race for him in 2002."

The 37-year-old's manager, Mario Miyakawa, was, however, quick to deny that a deal for 2002 had been done. "I really think this is the impression we have but I cannot say it is signed because it's not," he said.

Jordan Grand Prix also denied that Alesi had been confirmed for 2002.P}A team spokesperson saying said that "Jean has been signed for the remaining five races of the season with an option, on both sides, for 2002, depending on how things go.

" At the end of the season Jean and Eddie will sit down and discuss what is best for both of them."