Former world champion Jacques Villeneuve has been dropped by the BAR-Honda team, according to his manager Craig Pollock. The Canadian, who took the title in 1997, is expected to be replaced at the BAR team next year by Japanese driver Takuma Sato at the behest of engine supplier Honda.
Pollock said Villeneuve had been dropped from the BAR-Honda team after a phone call from team managing director Dave Richards on Friday evening.
"What is so disappointing is the fact that this team was built for and around Jacques, and he underwent all sorts of trials and tribulations over the years as BAR struggled to find its place in Formula One," said Pollock.
"Jacques never wavered, and his loyalty to British American Racing was constant. "He had other opportunities, and no one would have blamed him for going elsewhere, but he preferred to see this project through despite a car that did not live up to its expectations."
Pollock said he was not sure if Villeneuve would take part in the final race of the season in Japan on 11 October.
It has been widely reported that team test driver Sato will take over Villeneuve's role, with Honda keen for a Japanese driver to feature again in the F1 championship.
Pollock added that Villeneuve, who has had a miserable season - lying in 16th place with just six points in the drivers' championship - will now consider his options for the future over the coming days.
The Canadian has said he could not contemplate life outside F1, although he admits the Le Mans 24-hour race holds some interest for him.
MMIX
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