BBC director general Tony Hall has denied any knowledge of claims that Jeremy Clarkson was secretly offered a return as Top Gear host.
Clarkson made claims to the contrary in his Sun column, where he also dropped heavy hints that he might be working with other broadcasters on a new car show.
Chris Evans, meanwhile, has signed a three-year deal to be the new host of Top Gear, the BBC announced recently.
Chris Evans has told journalists he is "very excited" to be taking over as presenter of the BBC's Top Gear motoring programme.
Speaking from his car outside New Broadcasting House in central London, the broadcaster said he was excited to be taking on the role, but there was no shortlist for his co-presenters.
"It's a very long list." Mr Evans said.
Evans also told Radio 5 Live's Nicky Campbell that he could "100% confirm" he would have a female co-star "but not for the sake of it".
Jeremy Clarkson has claimed he was offered a return to Top Gear but had to turn it down as "too much has gone on" since he left the show.
Chris Evans said anyone from around the world was welcome to apply as long as they knew about cars.
Chris Evans has signed a three-year deal to be the new host of Top Gear, the BBC has said.