Williams plans Villeneuve test

Williams said he spoke to Villeneuve to gauge his motivation over a return to Formula 1. The French-Canadian won his world title with Williams-Renault in 1997.

"We wanted to re-establish contact with Villeneuve to remind ourselves of his personality and his feelings," said Williams. "He appeared as competitive as always. It was very nice to meet him and he was very determined to return behind the wheel.

"First Jacques must be tested and evaluated. If we proceed it would be in August or at the start of September. It is a long process but Jacques brings with him a lot of experience. He knows the Honda engine and Bridgestone tyres well, and [although] that does not affect our choice, if he joined us it would help us.

"We have discussed different things, and have looked into the possibility of seeing him again and we are always interested in his services."

Williams has two race seats available for 2005, although Jaguar's Mark Webber is expected to fill one of those. Villeneuve would be up against the likes of IRL champion Scott Dixon, test drivers Antonio Pizzonia and Marc Gene, plus Giancarlo Fisichella and Nick Heidfeld for the drive.