Pollock out, Green in at BAR?

Green is expected to move to F1 at the behest of British American Tobacco, the prime sponsor of BAR and Green's Team Kool Green outfit, with Green's brother Kim taking over the running of the Champ Car operation, according to Autosport's sister magazine Autocar.

Pollock left last weekend's Belgian Grand Prix prematurely with stomach troubles, while Green was on his yacht off the New England coast and unavailable for comment. However, Kim Green was contacted by the Indianapolis Star last week.

"That's one of the biggest rumours I've heard all year and it would surprise the hell out of me," he said. "I don't want to underestimate my brother, but I spoke to Craig a week or so ago, and I understand he's still part owner of [British American Racing] along with Reynard and BAT."

Jacques Villeneuve has re-committed to BAR for a further three years, but has a performance-related get-out clause that could allow him to leave at the end of 2001. After nearly two full seasons in F1, the team's best results are a trio of fourth places.