Pirelli to Talk Possibilities with Heidfeld

Sauber Motorsport has confirmed the signing of Pirelli F1 test driver Nick Heidfeld. The 33-year old German driver’s contract with the racing team comes into effect on September 17 and, thanking Peter Sauber for putting faith in him, Heidfeld said he was “looking forward like crazy” to racing in Formula One again from the Singapore Grand Prix onwards.

“After the last months I’m even more motivated than ever,” Heidfeld commented. “For me it is like coming home, as I raced for seven years in total for the team from Hinwil. 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.”

Despite Heidfeld’s newly announced racing commitments, Pirelli hopes to retain his services as it prepares to take over as F1 tyre supplier next year. A spokesperson from the Italian tyre maker told GPUpdate.net that “we’ll sit down with him and discuss the possibilities” following this week’s testing at Jerez. “The plan is to hold on to him, if possible, but obviously we need to see if there’s a logistical solution there,” the spokesperson added.

Heidfeld replaces Pedro de la Rosa at Sauber Motorsport. The Spanish driver said he was “surprised” by the team’s decision, but nevertheless respects it. He added that he still intends to participate in Formula One in 2011.