Villeneuve Disappointed after Early Exit

Canadian Jacques Villeneuve failed to finish his home Formula One Grand Prix for the fourth time in six years on Sunday.

The 1997 World Champion, who has never won at the island circuit named after his late father Gilles, retired on the 10th lap after his best qualifying performance of the season had raised local hopes.

After starting ninth, his British American Racing (BAR) halted at turn 12. The car remained stranded on the track and the safety car had to be deployed for two laps while it was removed by marshals.

"I think the engine let go," said Villeneuve. "It's very very disappointing. There's not much I can do. The engine problems started very early."

BAR are the only team yet to score a point after seven races this season and had introduced significant aerodynamic improvements in Canada. Their hopes of banking a point or two in Montreal rested with Frenchman Olivier Panis, who has not finished a Grand Prix this season.

Villeneuve's best finish in his homeland was second place for Williams in 1996. Since then, his best result was 10th place in 1998, while still driving for Williams.