Villeneuve unconcerned about pace

(24-Jul-98) - Just 24 hours after the hype surrounding his move to British
American Racing, Jacques Villeneuve was brought down to earth with a bump
after ending opening practice down in 13th.

But the French-Canadian was unconcerned about the pace of his Williams and
believes that he can still challenge at the front of the grid during
Saturday's crucial qualifying session.

"It was very slippery out there and it is much hotter than in
1997," said the reigning world champion. "I think the tyres were
done with last year in mind -- but that's the same for everybody. Although
we are far back position wise, it's not the same with regards times -- they
are very tight.

"A few tenths and you can gain six positions, so I'm not too worried
about that as we still have a lot to figure out on the set-up.

"It's difficult to say how much more I can get out of the car for
qualifying tomorrow, but if everything works fine then we should be able to
fight like we did in Silverstone."

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