BMW may not race V8 in 2006

Believe it or not, BMW may not put a V8 engine in the Sauber next year. The German carmaker's motor sport director, a staunch critic of the switch from V10, admitted that a V8 has been designed and will be tested. But Dr Mario Theissen added at the Munich press conference: ''We will see whether it will be possible to use it.''

Although Minardi will also take advantage of the rev-limited V10 option, the FIA intended it as a stop-gap measure for under funded teams.

BMW-Sauber, though, might have a case. With the Williams split, and Sauber's continuing 2005 engine contract with Ferrari, it is conceivable that Sir Frank may not want to dedicate too many resources to helping BMW develop the V8.

Theissen also said BMW never considered buying Williams. ''The majority share has never been in the offing,'' said the German. ''We never discussed it. This step only makes sense if it is a perfect match.''