13/09/2004
NEWS STORY
In the wake of Jarno Trulli's continuing poor run at Renault, which many put down to an attitude - rather than technical - problem, there is growing talk that the Italian could be dropped for the remaining three races in favour of 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve.
The Canadian, who left BAR at the end of last season, when the Brackley team opted not to re-sign him, has watched from the sidelines this season, though his name has never been far from the headlines thanks to the F1 rumour-mill.
As the option for 2005 slowly run out, Villeneuve will fully appreciate that strong performances in the final three races could help him secure a decent drive for 2005, while Renault needs to get back ahead of BAR in the constructors' championship.
Villeneuve, who won his title in a Renault powered Williams, would gain sweet justice by helping the French team deprive BAR of the runner-up spot, while the opportunity to show what he can do alongside 'hot shot' Fernando Alonso, would also be a mouth-watering prospect.
There is talk that Villeneuve will take part in a test with Renault this week - yes we know, we've heard it all before - ahead of a final decision being made on Friday.
The truth is that the relationship between Renault and Trulli isn't simply at an end, it is turning rancid, and unless it is ended soon will do permanent damage to all parties involved. The moment Villeneuve, or indeed anyone else, sits in the R24, even for a test drive, the 'marriage' will be over and there will be no going back.