BMW delays the announcement of its driver lineup

BMW-Sauber, through the voice of its director Mario Theissen, has decided to postpone any decision regarding its 2009 driver lineup.

« We delayed our decisions, » said Theissen at Spa-Francorchamps.

« Initially, we wanted to announce our 2009 line-up in August, but we delayed the decision. »

« It’s not about being the first to announce it but rather about making the right decisions. »

The German team has only confirmed Robert Kubica for next year, while the future of Nick Heidfeld remains uncertain.

Most teams with a vacant seat are waiting to see the intentions of the double world champion Fernando Alonso before finalizing their lineup for 2009.

However, Heidfeld stated on Saturday that he was quite confident, considering that he had delivered good performances to secure a new agreement with the Hinwil-based team.

The German driver qualified for the Belgian race in fifth position as the first of the ‘others’ behind Hamilton, Massa, Kovalainen, and Räikkönen. Then, in the race, he achieved a magnificent podium and took advantage of Hamilton’s penalty to move up to the second step of the podium.

Apparently, in Monza, Heidfeld focused on the new aerodynamic package, and he had the chance to try a number of things. He told me he found areas where he could improve his tire issues, and it seems to be working, Theissen concluded.