Pollock Steps Down from BAR (Updated)

Craig Pollock has stepped down as team principal of British American Racing (BAR) on the eve of the launch of the team's car for the 2002 Formula One season.

A replacement for the 45-year-old Scotsman will be named at the launch at the team's Brackley factory in central England on Tuesday, the team said in a statement on Monday. BBC radio reported that world rally chief David Richards would be Pollock's replacement.

"I am extremely proud of what has been achieved at British American Racing. I believe the foundations have been laid for great success," Pollock said. "All the staff have been fantastic to work with and I wish the Team every success for the future. For my part I think the time is now right to explore new opportunities," he added.

Pollock played a key role in persuading BAR to buy Tyrrell and back a Formula One team and has been in charge since its inception in 1997. The team began racing in 1999 with drivers Brazilian Ricardo Zonta and 1997 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve, whom Pollock had taught at school in Switzerland and later managed.

Despite the great fanfare of the launch, their first season was hugely disappointing. They finished behind Minardi in 11th place in the manufacturers' standings with no points. An engine deal with Honda was secured for the 2000 season and there was a great improvement as they gathered 20 points to finish fifth.

But last season the team slipped back to sixth with 17 points, 12 of them won by Villeneuve, who twice got on the podium with third place finishes in Spain and Germany.

Pollock's close relationship with the Canadian has always been cited as the main reason why he has stayed so long at such a uncompetitive team. BAR chairman Kenneth Clarke, the former British cabinet minister, said the team was grateful for Pollock's efforts.

"We are all grateful to Craig for his contribution to the Team since its inception," he said. "He has been pivotal in enabling BAR to become one of the most successful start-up teams in recent Formula One history."