Villeneuve and Panis Re-Sign with BAR for 2002

Canadian Jacques Villeneuve and Frenchman Olivier Panis will continue to drive for the British American Racing team in 2002, it was announced on Thursday.

Despite recent speculation linking Villeneuve with McLaren, the 1997 World Champion has decided to stay with BAR for one more year, and the Canadian was happy with his decision and looking forward to next year.

"I am looking forward to working with BAR Honda in 2002," said Villeneuve, who joined BAR back in 1999. "Next year we should improve significantly and I'm confident that we can achieve some good results. I have been with the team for three seasons - since the beginning - and during that time there has been a steady progression.

"I'm very happy that we will continue working together to make the team as competitive as possible. It is also good news that Olivier and I will continue as teammates. We work well together and that is important for the team to move forward and make the necessary progress."

Frenchman Panis, who arrived at BAR this season after spending a year as McLaren's test driver in 2000, was also pleased to be staying at the Brackley-based team in 2002.

"I am extremely happy to continue with BAR Honda in 2002," admitted the Frenchman. "Stability is a key factor in the future of the team and I believe that, together with Honda, we can go on to achieve great success. The fact that Jacques and I will continue to be teammates is also very important.

"Jacques is a fierce competitor and I look forward to working with him again as we challenge the 2002 Championships. Now that everything has been cleared up for next season, I intend to focus on the six races remaining this year and do my utmost to achieve the best possible result in 2001."

BAR have endured a tough season so far, having scored only twelve points in eleven races and losing out to their Honda-powered rivals of Jordan. Team boss Craig Pollock hoped his driver line-up will help BAR move forward next year.

"So far, 2001 has been a difficult season for BAR but the strength of our driver line-up continues to shine through," said Pollock. "Jacques and Olivier have been doing an amazing job. I am very happy that the partnership will continue next season.

"I believe the continuity Olivier and Jacques will bring, combined with our ongoing partnership with Honda, means we can all look forward to the future with confidence."