F1 legend spotted having lunch in Norfolk pub

DAVID BALE
27 November 2009 14:02



Former world racing champ Jacques Villeneuve had lunch at a Norfolk pub a few miles away from Lotus's Hethel headquarters - sparking more speculation that he could soon be driving for the company.

The Canadian winner of the 1997 Formula 1 World Championship has previously admitted it has been “very flattering” to have been linked publicly with the F 1 2010 newcomer Lotus - even if he insists that any discussions remain “only preliminary”.

His visit to the Bird in Hand pub, in Wreningham, in the company of a Lotus executive yesterday lunchtime will no doubt fuel more speculation.

Pub manageress Lizzie Brake said his arrival at the watering hole at about 1pm surprised guests and staff alike.

She said: “It was quite a surprise. We all got his autographs. He was here for about one and a half hours, and we think he left to go back to Lotus.

“He was with another Canadian, an American and a lady from Lotus. He had a fillet steak.”

Lotus F1 chief technical officer Mike Gascoyne has previously revealed that the Malaysian-backed Norfolk-based outfit is ideally seeking two experienced hands to help guide the team through what will be its maiden season in the top flight.

The team is aiming to have two drivers signed up by the end of November and Mr Gascoyne has confirmed that talks were held with both Mr Villeneuve - who defeated the record-breaking Michael Schumacher for title glory with Williams 12 years ago.

Speaking of Mr Gascoyne's comments, the 38-year-old Quebec native told the French-speaking publication Rue Frontenac: “It's very flattering to know that he said publicly that we have spoken. The discussions are still only preliminary and we're not yet at the stage to talk about the details of a possible association.”

Since exiting F1, the 11-time grand prix-winner has competed for Peugeot in sports cars - including a brace of appearances in the iconic round-the-clock Le Mans 24 Hours. Prior to the speculation linking him with Lotus, the son of legendary Ferrari hero Gilles Villeneuve had been mooted as a possible USF1 driver in 2010.

Outside of F1, Mr Villeneuve also released an album titled 'Private Paradise'.

A Group Lotus spokesman told the Evening News: “We do not comment about any guest visits to Lotus, particularly private ones.” He added that there would be a statement today, but said this would not be related to an F1 drive or F1 racing.

Have you spotted a celebrity at your local recently? Ring reporter David Bale on 01603 772427 or email david.bale2@archant.co.uk.

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