Villeneuve Will Not Make Sprint Return at Watkins Glen

Jacques Villeneuve will not make his comeback to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series this weekend, as initially reported by Richard Petty Motorsports. The Canadian driver was believed to replace Reed Sorenson behind the wheel of the #43 Richard Petty Motorsports Dodge, following the 23-year old's incident at the Pocono Raceway last weekend.

During the Sprint Cup race in Pennsylvania on Monday, Sorenson was reported to have inhaled carbon monoxide following an on-track incident. However, the team has now confirmed Sorenson will be able to fulfill his driving duties at Watkins Glen, while Villeneuve will be on stand-by.

“Reed Sorenson will drive the #43 Dodge for Richard Petty Motorsports in Sunday's NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Watkins Glen International. The Petty team retained Jacques Villeneuve as a substitute driver in case Sorenson continued to suffer from the effects of carbon monoxide he inhaled in Monday's race at Pocono,” said the team's statement.

“Fortunately, Sorenson has recovered from the accident. Owners George and Foster Gillett along with the Richard Petty Motorsports team appreciate Villeneuve's willingness to help out on such short notice,” added the press release.

The Quebec-based driver will therefore have to wait until later this month to make his NASCAR return. He was already confirmed by Braun Racing for his home race at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in the Nationawide Series, driving the No. 32 Toyota.