By GMM

1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve insists he is open to rekindling his formula one career.

On his visit to the Montreal paddock two weeks ago, the French Canadian played down any suggestion of a possible bid to return to the grid.

But after finishing second at Le Mans last weekend, the 37-year-old told an Italian magazine that he would not totally rule out making a comeback.

"I'm open to the idea, certainly with the new technical situation," Villeneuve, who was released by BMW-Sauber during the 2006 season, is quoted as saying by Autosprint.

"To be honest, I have no idea if it would be possible.

"I have never given up hope of re-entering F1. I have driven in some other series, but that was only because there were no vacant seats in F1.

"If the opportunity would occur, certainly with the new regulations, I would love to get back to work," the veteran of 165 grands prix and 11 wins added.