Nationality not an issue

For BMW Motorsport Director Dr Mario Theissen the issue of a drivers nationality is not an issue. This comment was made in reference to the issue of Ralf Schumacher been retained by the WilliamsF1 team based on his nationality.

In respect of having a German driver in the WilliamsF1 team Theissen said: "It's not first priority. We've always said that the priority is to get the two quickest drivers we can get.

"It's not that important. We see it as a bonus to have Ralf on board but we would never sacrifice on performance in order to have a driver of a certain nationality." The issue of Ralf staying with the WilliamsF1 team is yet to be resolved. But Ralf's previous comments indicate a degree of dissatisfaction with the process of extending his contract.

As for Ralf's comments WilliamsF1 team boss would not comment apart from saying: "I can truthfully look you in the eye and say I never read any article about what Ralf said, because I chose not to. I am thereby in the happy position of truly being unable to comment."