BAR Considering Wurz for 2004 Drive

McLaren test driver Alexander Wurz has moved into contention for a drive alongside Briton Jenson Button after he met BAR-Honda team boss David Richards at last weekend's German Grand Prix.

Current driver Jacques Villeneuve has struggled to impress this year and with just three points to his name and his contract expires at the end of the year. Richards said that he has "four or five" drivers lined up for the position - including Villeneuve "if he gets his act together" - but has admitted Wurz would fit into the team perfectly next season.

"Alex worked for me at Benetton, I have a great respect for him, I think he is very intelligent mature driver and would be a great compliment to the team," said Richards. "That said, I have made it very clear that we are not rushing into any decisions at this moment.

"It will happen over the next couple of months so let's wait and see how it will unfold. I think McLaren are hoping to announce their plans at Hungary. I am in discussions with four or five different drivers and I have a very open mind to it at the moment."

Richards also revealed that current test driver Takuma Sato is being considered for the role, along with current driver Villeneuve, if the Canadian former World Champion can get his act together.

"We have an option on Takuma's services as a race driver next year," Richards said. "He is certainly on the list and you can understand that the Japanese think very highly of him as a driver, as a personality."