The Scotsman's seat with Toyota has been the subject of much speculation, particularly as the 32-year-old has consistently found himself in the shadow of team-mate Mika Salo.

Alexander Wurz and Heinz-Harald Frentzen had both been linked with the drive for 2003.

But Toyota have denied rumours that McNish might be replaced for the next race, the Hungarian Grand Prix on 18 August.

A statement read: "In direct response to recent rumours concerning its driver line-up, Panasonic Toyota Racing would like to set the record straight.

It added: "no decision regarding the 2003 driver line-up has yet been taken."

The Scot outqualified Salo for the first time this year with 17th place at the German Grand Prix.

But McNish dropped back behind Salo once the race started at Hockenheim before retiring with engine failure.

On Saturday, Dumfries-born McNish claimed he was not troubled by the continuing rumours.

He said: "I've been in this game quite a while and I know how hard it can be, so a few rumours are not going to affect me.

"I'll keep doing my job, just as I have done up until now. You can see by the facts, that I'm doing a good job.

"Without going into details, they (the team) are happy with what I've done and I'm very, very confident about the situation."