Theissen coy on Villeneuve's future

Villeneuve will be replaced by third driver Robert Kubica this weekend after the former world champion said he had not fully recovered from an accident during the German Grand Prix.

The team, however, left open the possibility that Kubica might replace the Canadian for more than the one race.

"I don't know. We have a decision for this race and we will evaluate the situation after this weekend," said Theissen about Villeneuve's future.

"Jacques did not attend the race debrief last Sunday due to a headache. And we were informed by his manager on Tuesday that the headache is still there. So that was the basis for the decision. The intention is to look at the situation after the race, as I said.

"We don't have a decision on the outstanding races of this season or next year either. We are starting to think of next year and certainly this is an opportunity for us to see how Robert copes with a race situation."

When asked if Villeneuve would return to the cockpit once he was fit, Theissen said: "There are no guarantees in life."

Theissen, however, denied Villeneuve's relationship with the team had deteriorated.

"No. I think he has been doing a good job for the team all season and in testing as well," he added.

Kubica had been tipped to replace Villeneuve next season, with the Canadian's contract expiring at the end of this year.

The third driver will become the first Pole to start a Formula One race on Sunday, and Theissen is expecting him to put on a strong performance.

"I expect him to do well actually," he said. "As I said before, after the weekend we will evaluate the situation."