Heidfeld shines on his return
During the third day of testing that took place today in Jerez, German driver Nick Heidfeld set the fastest time at the wheel of the Lotus Renault GP team's single-seater.
The German was playing for the starting position left vacant by Robert Kubica following his terrible rally accident last Sunday. By recording the best result on the timesheet, and notably beating Fernando Alonso in a Ferrari and Michael Schumacher in a Mercedes, Heidfeld certainly proved convincing behind the wheel of the Enstone single-seater.
If we are to believe the comments made by Eric Boullier a few days ago, the announcement of Nick Heidfeld’s appointment as a full-time driver should be imminent. The French team principal had indeed stated that the former BMW Sauber driver would replace Robert Kubica if he proved convincing during this test day in Jerez. And it seems the exam has been passed…
Diligent and consistent during this day of private testing, Heidfeld, who completed 86 laps today at the Jerez circuit in Spain, was determined to prove his worth at the wheel of the R31.
Barring any unpleasant surprises, there is no doubt that if “Quick Nick” were appointed as the main driver by the Lotus Renault GP team leaders in the coming days, his ability to score big points in the early part of the 2011 championship would have to be taken into account…
