Nick Heidfeld: “In my mind I have always been quite open. I was just less in demand before”
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Jul 16, 2007
bmw-sauber-f1
The word on the street is that you’re a changed man. Is that true?
Nick Heidfeld: “Do you mean because of the beard? “
Not only that. People are saying you’re more open now.
Heidfeld: “In my mind I have always been quite open. I was just less in demand before. Added to which, it’s rather more enjoyable to be talking about a battle with the world champion or a podium finish than explaining why you’ve trailed in 17th again. “
Did you think before the start of the season that you would be able to take on Fernando Alonso fair and square this year?
Heidfeld: “No, we have exceeded expectations. I was sure that we would step up a level in our second season on the grid. Having said that, we finished fifth in the constructors’ standings last year - 50 points off fourth place - and there was no way I could have expected us to be the third-best team already. “
What do you put this success down to?
Heidfeld: “We already had a good group of people on board, but now we also have the resources of a leading team. We’ve brought in 150 new people at our Hinwil base, the wind tunnel is in use around the clock, we are better equipped at the race track, and a programme of expansion is under way at the factory in Hinwil. It’s something of a building site at the moment, but the work will be completed by the end of the year. “
What more can be done to reach the very top?
Heidfeld: “I hope it’s just a matter of time. The F1.07 is, in effect, the first genuine BMW Sauber. Even more experience and resources will go into next year’s car. We are heading in a positive direction. This team has given me the big chance I have been waiting for such a long time. “
How does a race have to go for you to be really happy? Is a podium finish now the minimum requirement?
Heidfeld: “No, it’s not so much finishing on the podium that makes me happy, but more if I’ve driven well - if I’ve picked up a few positions and not made any mistakes, in other words. In short, I’ll be happy if I’ve made the best of what I’ve got. “
