Nick Heidfeld confirmed in Sauber move
Sauber has confirmed yesterday’s rumours that German driver Nick Heidfeld will take over from Pedro de la Rosa for Sauber this season. The 33-year-old veteran, who began the year by working as a test and reserve driver for Mercedes and later moved to Pirelli, is eager to get back into the Formula One game.
“I'm looking forward like crazy to having the opportunity to race again in a good car in Formula 1,” an elated Heidfeld states, according to BBC Sport. “After the last months I'm even more motivated than ever. For me it's like coming home. Without doubt I will be feeling at home straight away and this should help me to familiarise myself as soon as possible with the car. I want to thank Peter Sauber for the faith he has put in me.”
It is no surprise that the German driver, who has competed in 169 F1 races, is in demand by Sauber. He raced for the team in from 2001-03 and 2006-09, and for Prost, Jordan, and Williams as well. It comes at a crucial moment for Sauber, whose Kamui Kobayashi has scored a fair 21 points for the season, but team-mate De la Rosa only holds six.
A saddened De la Rosa acknowledged the farewell and was generous with his parting, and optimistic for his future. “I am surprised by the team's decision,” he states, “But I respect it and would like to wish everyone good luck for the remainder of the season. I still intend to be in Formula 1 in 2011”
Team boss Peter Sauber justified the move with a statement, “It was a hard decision for me to make as a team principal and I want to thank Pedro for his professionalism. By signing Nick we have a driver we know extremely well who will help us to further judge the comparative potential of our car.”
Heidfeld will get behind his Sauber wheel as early as the Singapore Grand Prix on 26 September.
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