Villeneuve Makes His Point plus Three Points for Sauber

To his credit, Peter Sauber, team principle, supported JV during a reporter feeding frenzy that had the 1997 world champion

"After qualifying we realized that we had made a significant step, but it was bigger than we expected," stated Peter Sauber. (Photo: Sauber Petronas)

replaced by a variety of rumoured candidates.

"After qualifying we realized that we had made a significant step, but it was bigger than we expected," stated Sauber. "During the race I was even more surprised what we were seeing. Jacques was able to keep a strong pace and I am particularly happy for him after three difficult races that he should be able to savour this success. It was clear that Felipe would have a difficult time starting a fuel-heavy car 18th as it is so hard to overtake here, and that must have been frustrating for him. But overall I am very happy that the car is at a competitive level now. Thanks again to our technical crew in Hinwil."

No doubt, faring so well in the race took away the sting that must have resulted when the team principal heard news earlier in the day, that its top-tier Ferrari engine supply may be in jeopardy. Ferrari announced that it would be supplying Red Bull in 2006, and the Scuderia is unlikely to support two teams.

While one race success will not necessarily shut up the likes of Martin Brundle, ITV's controversial commentator who not only adds slanted colour to the F1's syndicated television broadcasts but also manages Red Bull's David Coulthard, an obvious conflict of interest, but JV will at the very least put a damper on reports that he's about to be replaced. He came through when he needed to, and if allowed a great deal more time behind the wheel of the much improved

One race success for JV will not necessarily shut up the likes of Martin Brundle, ITV's controversial F1 commentator and manager of Red Bull's David Coulthard. (Photo: Red Bull Cosworth)

C24, his next outing in Barcelona, Spain, will be yet more fruitful.

While enthusiastic about the result of Sunday's race, Villeneuve isn't fooling himself by thinking that his adversaries will be closed-mouthed throughout the rest of the season, however.

"It was not a question of proving anything. Another week or two, one bad race or one bad day and everything will be bad again, the rumours will start again, and everything like that, you know," he told AFP. "I don't think it changes much, but it makes life a lot easier for the future and also, internally, with the team, it will make it easier to work."