Negotiations with the potential backers and sponsors failed , and the companies that would pay for Hideki Noda to drive the Simtek were severely affected by the Kobe earthquake . Prior to the next race , Simtek Grand Prix went into voluntary liquidation and the receivers , Touche Ross , were called in . The collapse of the Formula One team also forced Simtek Research to declare itself bankrupt . In total , 48 jobs were lost and with the team unable to be sold as a going concern , Simtek 's assets were auctioned off
Kobe earthquake
Great Hanshin earthquake
Simtek