The Leafield-based Super Aguri F1 team is looking for a new driver after Formula One leaders withdrew Japanese driver Yuji Ide's super licence, which allows him to compete in Grands Prix.

The move comes after a crash involving Ide and Midland F1 driver Christijan Alberts at the European Grand Prix at the Nurburgring.

A spokesman for the Oxfordshire team said Franck Montagny would drive for the team alongside Takuma Sato at the forthcoming Spanish and Monaco Grands Prix, while discussions continued to find a second race and test driver for the team.

She said: "It is with sadness and regret that the team accepts this decision, however Aguri Suzuki and A.Company (Japan) shall continue to seek driving opportunities for Yuji and hopefully a path back into Formula One."