JUNE 22, 2006

Theissen talks drivers

As part of its preview for the North American Formula 1 races, BMW issued a carefully-constructed interview with Dr. Mario Theissen, pushing out all the messages that the Munich car maker wants to get across to the world.

Theissen said that the team is "extremely happy" with its current driver line-up and that it will have "an extremely strong team of drivers once again in 2007". The decision about drivers will not however be made until after the season is over - at least not officially. Theissen was, however, complimentary about Jacques Villeneuve, saying that ''Jacques is proving his critics wrong. He's highly motivated and right back in top form". It is interesting to note that Robert Kubica also came in for praise for his role as the team's test driver but that there was a hint of caution.

"We have been highly satisfied with his work and fully expect him to continue in this vein," said Theissen. "I'm in no doubt that he has a future in F1. However, he's still very young and we need to give him time.''

Perhaps Villeneuve will get another year.