It might not have come about in the most desirable of circumstances in the wake of the serious injuries sustained by Robert Kubica in his high-speed rallying accident earlier this month, but on the eve of the F1 2011 World Championship, Nick Heidfeld has the chance of his lifetime – and it is thoroughly well-deserved.
It was confirmed by Lotus Renault GP yesterday (Wednesday) that Heidfeld will stand in for his former BMW-Sauber team-mate Kubica until the Pole is fit enough to return from the broken arm and leg and most worryingly of all the partially-severed hand that he suffered after a piece of guardrail travelled right the way through the Skoda Fabia he was sharing with co-driver Jakub Gerber on the Ronde di Andora Rally in Italy.
Although he has stated his intent to rejoin the grand prix grid before the season is out, the likelihood is that the 26-year-old will be forced to miss the entire F1 2011 campaign – a crying shame for one of the most highly-rated drivers in the field, and one who appeared to be on the verge of a major breakthrough this year. For Heidfeld, who has admitted his sadness at Kubica’s misfortune, it is little short of manna from heaven.
The German was sitting on the sidelines and preparing to launch a second career of-sorts in tin-tops when Lotus Renault GP Eric Boullier made the announcement that he was looking for a solid, experienced driver to replace Kubica, a safe pair of hands and one ideally with some prior knowledge of the new Pirelli tyres. Nick’s ears must have pricked up – although his name had not been mentioned, he ticked all the boxes and fit the bill to perfection. And before long, his name was being mentioned. Yahoo! Eurosport UK
Although it is understood Kubica would have preferred close friend Vitantonio Liuzzi to replace him, Renault have opted for Heidfeld, who has 172 race starts over an 11-year career in F1.
Heidfeld, 33, said: “I would have liked to come back to Formula One in different circumstances, but I’m proud to have been given this chance.”
“Everything has happened so quickly, but I’ve been very impressed by what I have seen so far in terms of the facilities and the dedication of the people at Enstone.”
“I have a good feeling for the car, which is quite innovative. I’m extremely motivated and can’t wait for the season to begin.” The Press Association
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