VIENNA, Oct 8, 2007 (AFP) - Williams´ Austrian driver Alexander Wurz on Monday announced his retirement from Formula One ten years after his debut race for Benetton.

The 33-year-old Austrian told his team´s website: "In such a hard fought environment as Formula One, I have always maintained that if you have a moment´s doubt about what you are doing, then it is time to stop.

"Privately I began to have these thoughts earlier this year and so have decided that now is the time to make my announcement."

Wurz, who has also had a spell with McLaren, joined Williams as a test driver last season before taking a race seat this year.

Since his Montreal debut in 1997 the Monaco-based driver has competed in 69 grand prix and last stepped up onto the podium in Montreal where his career began, taking third to Lewis Hamilton and Nick Heidfeld in June.

"Racing this season has been a real pleasure, especially securing the podium in Canada which was pretty sweet along with a number of other strong races, but now it is time to call it a day," the father of three commented.

Williams say they will announce Wurz´ replacement alongside Nico Rosberg for the season-closing Brazilian Grand Prix on Tuesday.

Away from F1 Wurz became at 22 the youngest driver to win the Le Mans 24 Hour race in 1996.