Villeneuve out of Hungarian Grand Prix
The Canadian will be replaced by test driver Robert Kubica, who will be the first Pole to compete in a Formula One grand prix.
“Jacques has informed us that he is not ready to race after his Hockenheim accident,” BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen said in a statement.
“Robert has made an outstanding impression with the team so far.”
Theissen added: “We have not made a decision on who will drive the car either in the remaining races of the season or next year.”
Ex-world champion Villeneuve crashed twice at Hockenheim, effectively eliminating team-mate Nick Heidfeld on the first lap before hitting the wall mid-race.
No medical reason has been offered for Villeneuve’s absence, which is bound to fuel speculation over his future with the team.
His replacement, 21-year-old Kubica, said his opportunity had come ahead of schedule but stressed his determination to seize his chance.
“I had prepared myself for a whole year without actually competing in any races, so I’m even happier to get this opportunity,” said the former Renault World Series champion.
“And I’m proud that the BMW Sauber F1 Team has such confidence in me. I’m determined not to let them down.”
Meanwhile, Bahrain will revert to third place on the Formula One calendar in 2007 after hosting this year’s season opener.
Bahrain organisers said in a statement that F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has given them a provisional date of 15 April, one week after the Malaysia GP.
The Australian GP in Melbourne, third on the 2006 calendar to avoid a clash with the Commonwealth Games, returns to its season-opening spot on 18 March.
Ecclestone has yet to release a draft calendar for the 2007 F1 season.
The schedule is expected to remain at 18 races with Belgium returning and Germany losing one of its two GPs.
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