Channel 4 presenter Mike Brewer will take up the challenge for Jordan, racing against fellow presenter Jamie Theakston in the Honda boat. "Jamie and I have worked together in the past but never raced each other, so I'm looking forward to leaving him in my wake," commented Brewer.

"I sneaked a quick practice in last week which was really encouraging; the boats handle beautifully and are seriously quick. With 17 crews baffling towards that chequered flag I think this will be quite an experience."

"We're extremely excited about this first powerboat race and having some fun with Honda on the water," said Eddie Jordan. "I took Jarno Trulli for a ride in the boat in Barcelona last weekend and we had a great time. Given that our boat is sponsored by EJ10, our new energy drink which has been specially formulated for drivers to help improve concentration, I think we could be in for some exciting racing!"

The Honda Formula 4-stroke series is the largest one-design powerboat championship in the world. 17 identical crafts powered by Honda BF 130 outboard engines will compete against Jordan in each race this year, beginning at Teignmouth on Saturday. The 'One Class' rule forbids any modifications to boat or engine, thereby producing close, exciting racing.