Friday January 21st, 2000

After months of speculation, WilliamsF1 formally announced this evening that driver Alessandro Zanardi will not continue to drive for the team in the 2000 season, due to "a difficult 1999 season."

The team released a statement, reading: "Williams and Alex Zanardi announced tonight a joint decision to terminate their Formula One relationship, with the effect that Alex Zanardi will not drive for the BMW Williams team in 2000. This decision follows a difficult 1999 season for Alex and Williams. We would like to thank Alex for his efforts for the team in 1999 and wish him every success for the future."

The team would not disclose any more details, but it is believed that Williams will be paying Zanardi his full 2000 salary - believed to be worth around 7.5 million US dollars.

The team also would not name Zanardi's replacement at this time. An announcement on who will pair with Ralf Schumacher is expected on Monday, when the 2000 BMW-Williams car will be launched.