Motor Racing: Mansell set for return

(First Edition)

NIGEL MANSELL, the former world champion, is set to make a dramatic return to Formula One in the French Grand Prix at Magny Cours on Sunday.

Rothmans WilliamsRenault are expected to name their line-up for the race at Magny Cours - and Mansell is all set to take the place of the Scottish test driver, David Coulthard.

Mansell seems likely to return for four races this season, but could form a permanent partnership with his compatriot Damon Hill when his IndyCar contract ends.

Mansell, who had 30 grand prix wins before leaving Formula One for IndyCar last year, flew back to England yesterday.

He won the IndyCar title in his debut season but is currently fifth in the standings after finishing a disappointing fifth in Portland, Oregon, on Sunday.

But Mansell's American team, Newman-Haas, are keen to keep him and if he does return to Formula One it will only be on days when IndyCar is not taking place.

'There is a possibility Nigel can still do the French Grand Prix. I don't want to comment on my feelings because I don't want to get involved in any confrontation,' Carl Haas, Mansell's IndyCar boss, said.

'It's too premature to talk about next year but I still want him in my team. I don't know whether he will be doing the three Formula One races at the end of this season.'