Manning Hopes for Villeneuve Leave

BAR test driver Darren Manning admits he is hoping to replace former World Champion Jacques Villeneuve should the Canadian leave the team prematurely.

"I would love to be given the chance to race with BAR and I think that I could be just as good as Jenson Button or Kimi Raikkonen," the 26-year-old Briton told Sunday People.

Manning has been BAR's test driver for the past three years, driving in Formula 3000 at the same time. He now has eyes on Formula One and said he would be ready if BAR's new boss David Richards was to call on him, in the case Villeneuve himself left the team before his contract ends.

"Jacques still has a year to run on his contract but if he decides to leave now I'd have enough time to get ready for the start of the season," Manning said. "I like a challenge and feel that I have what it takes. All I need is the chance to prove myself."