Villeneuve Gets New Trainer for F1 Return with Lotus

Canadian driver Jacques Villeneuve holds a very good chance of returning to Formula One action in 2010. Although this allegation has been re-analyzed plenty of times by the international media throughout the 2009 season – ever since he set foot in the paddock during the Monaco Grand Prix, the media kept writing about it – the recent reports regarding the Canadian driver seem to be all positive towards his comeback.

The 38-year old has made not secret from the fact that he aims to return to the series next year, although constantly denying the links suggested by the media – Manor Grand Prix and US F1. However, following his latest visit to the Lotus headquarters last week, the rumors about his potential signing with Tony Fernandes' team started to surface in the media.

In addition, it seems the former Formula One champion has already begun a “really, really brutal” fitness regime under the close guidance of Dr Erwin Gollner, his former and current trainer of Nico Rosberg.

As if that pieces of the puzzle weren't enough, the promoters of the Canadian Grand Prix – which was recently confirmed for the upcoming 5 years of Formula One racing – yesterday launched a public support for Villeneuve, who they'll love to see in a Lotus car during next year's race at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.

“I can't deny that if Jacques is back in a Formula One car it will help the Grand Prix. People here love him. We saw how popular he is when he raced NASCAR here. I would be fan no.1 if Jacques is back in a Lotus car and if we can help him, that's what we'll do,” said Francois Dumontier, the boss of promoters Octane Racing Group, according to the National Post.

Lotus yesterday announced that the definitive announcement of their 2010 drivers lineup will be made in the next couple of weeks. Jarno Trulli is also believed to hold a good chance of inking a deal with Lotus F1 Team.