World rallycross: Binks to stand in for Villeneuve

British Rallycross event winner David Binks will stand in for 1997 Formula 1 world champion Jacques Villeneuve in the French round of the World Rallycross Championship.

Villeneuve, who drives for Albatec Racing, had always intended to miss the Loheac event on September 6-7 due to clashing F1 TV commitments at the Italian Grand Prix.

Binks last raced in 2012, as teammate to World Rally Championship legend Marcus Gronholm in the Global Rallycross Championship in an OlsbergsMSE Ford Fiesta.

"I'm extremely excited about being asked to step into Jacques' car and make my World RX debut at the most exciting event on the 2014 calendar," said Binks. "I've always had a very good relationship with [team boss] Andy [Scott] and the entire Albatec Racing team.

"I'm looking to the event very much as a stepping stone to hopefully a full season in World RX next year. Hopefully doing this event will offer the chance to show my potential and secure the necessary funds for a full assault in 2015."

Scott added: "David had approached us as early and has been working tirelessly to find budget to come on board with us this year. He has a lot of rallycross experience in the British championship and GRC. I think he can certainly bring something to the team, and hopefully we can do more with him. Whether that is this year or next, we don't know."