Nick Heidfeld will return to Formula One racing by replacing Pedro de la Rosa at Sauber for the final five races of the season, the Swiss team said in a statement on Tuesday.
Heidfeld, 33, earned a third term at Sauber after the Spaniard de la Rosa did not meet the team’s expectations with just six championship points in 14 races.
“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,” said team boss Peter Sauber.
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De la Rosa expressed surprise about being dumped while Heidfeld was delighted about his return from the September 26 Singapore Grand Prix onwards.
“I’m looking forward like crazy to having the opportunity to go racing again in a good car in Formula One. After the last months I’m even more motivated than ever,” Heidfeld said. “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,” he said.
Heidfeld started his F1 career in 2000 at the Prost team and was at Sauber 2001-2003 and again 2006-2009. He was without a contract after BMW left the team a year ago. He became a test driver for Mercedes and then tyre makers Pirelli before the return to Sauber.
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His new contract at Sauber runs until the end of the season, but he will hope for a renewal for 2011 with good results.