BMW undecided on Villeneuve's future

Villeneuve, who had a poor season at Sauber in 2005, was retained by BMW after months of speculation about the former World Champion's future.

The Canadian had signed a two-year contract with Sauber, but there was a lot of uncertainty after he was outshone by teammate Felipe Massa.

Villeneuve, however, will partner German Nick Heidfeld at BMW this year.

Theissen did not rule out retaining the 34-year old next season, but said it was too early to talk about drivers.

"We will see," said Theissen. "So far we look at 2006 and in 2006 we need to have the best results that we can get. For this reason both drivers get equal chances and we expect equal results from both drivers and then we will talk about the future."

Theissen revealed BMW were in talks with some young drivers over the second racing seat, but Villeneuve's improvement in the final part of the season made them decide to keep the Canadian.

"We looked at both," he added. "We were in discussions with young drivers as well. I think it only makes sense to take on a young driver as a race driver if it is for more than one year because the first year in F1 is a learning year.

"No matter how good he is, it will take him a year to understand how F1 works, the team, how to develop the car and go through the weekend and therefore there is no problem taking on a young driver for a year and not gain from the experience he gained.

"This, and on the other hand, the improvement of Jacques over the season, made it look to us as the way to go for 2006."

The BMW boss also said both Villeneuve and Heidfeld will get the same status.

"Both drivers get equal treatment and they will get equal treatment. We have two number one drivers."