Villeneuve won the world championship in 1997 for Williams

Villeneuve joined Sauber on a two-year contract at the start of this year, but his position was unclear after BMW bought the team at the end of June. "I have a contract and so my chances (of staying) are very good - why should it change?" said the Canadian, who won the world title in 1997, said.

"The team was sold with all the contracts in place."

Villeneuve was under pressure after struggling to perform in the early stages of this season, but his performances have improved and he now insists his position is not under threat.

BMW, however, are likely to want to arrange their own driver line-up for next year and Williams' Nick Heidfeld is tipped to be high on their wanted list.