UpdateF1 >> Formula 1 News > Heidfeld confirmed at BMW

Both drivers to stay on

BMW-Sauber has this morning confirmed that both Nick Heidfeld and Robert Kubica will continue with the team for 2008.

The announcement comes after many weeks of speculation as the finer points of Heidfelds contract were reportedly ironed out, although it was always believed the German would continue with the Hinwil outfit for next season. Heidfeld currently lies ‘best of the rest’ in the points table, as do the team, behind the Mclaren and Ferrari drivers.

A team statement referred to the ‘importance of continuity’ in Formula One, and team boss Mario Theissen explained:

"Both Nick and Robert have delivered very strong performances in the course of this season. They have played a decisive role in enabling the BMW Sauber F1 Team to firmly establish itself as the third best team in Formula One. Forty two world championship points plus two podium places says everything about Nick's achievements. Thanks to his extensive experience he is making a substantial contribution to the progress of the team. For Robert, 2007 is his first full season in the top echelon of motor sport. In his brief Formula One career so far he has established himself as equal to Nick. He is extremely fast and, for somebody so young, already has a very sound understanding of technical matters. Robert is a rough diamond we want to polish up into a winning driver. With this strong driver team we are in an excellent position."

Heidfeld added:

"For me it was always clear that I wanted to continue driving for the BMW Sauber F1 Team, and I never doubted that would be the case. It is tremendous being able to help build up a new team and doing my bit for it. When I look at the progress we have made over the last two years, it's an incredible incentive for me. Personally I have high sporting ambitions and I am certain I can achieve them with the BMW Sauber F1 Team."

Robert Kubica, who already had a contract for the 2008 season, commented:

"I have now been in Formula One for just over one year and have gathered a great deal of experience. Even so, I am learning new things every day and making steady progress. We now have to concentrate on achieving our ambitious common goals, and I'm confident that the team will be able to give me all the necessary tools that I need to reward them for their renewed trust."

The BMW-Sauber F1.07 has been something of a revelation this season, with the team promising major progress for next season. With Sebastian Vettel recently joining Scuderia Toro Rosso it is undecided as yet who will be third driver for the team, a position currently held by GP2 star Timo Glock.

Written: Tue, 21 Aug 2007 08:40:16