UpdateF1 >> Formula 1 News > Wurz steps down

Replacement named Tuesday

Oct.9 (GMM) As predicted in the Austrian press, Williams on Monday announced the immediate retirement as a race driver of Alex Wurz.

The Grove based team will reveal the identity of his replacement for the Brazilian grand prix on Tuesday, but test driver Kazuki Nakajima is expected to get the nod.

"In such a hard fought environment as formula one, I have always maintained that if you have a moment's doubt about what you are doing, then it is time to stop," a statement quoted the 33-year-old Austrian Wurz as saying.

"I'd like to thank the team for accepting my decision and I wish them all the best for the last race of the year.

"I look forward to my future and perhaps the opportunity to pass on my knowledge and skills in formula one and I have some discussions underway.

"I may also race again, perhaps in Le Mans or other categories and
certainly some of my time will now be committed to the very important subject of road safety."

Sir Frank Williams in the statement heralded Wurz as "one of the best test and development drivers the team has ever worked with".

Written: Tue, 09 Oct 2007 05:37:58