BMW Sauber annoyed by refuelling lottery

It was all looking good for Robert Kubica at the Singapore Grand Prix, until the much-disputed rule regarding pit stops during safety-car phases ruined his race. This rule had also been responsible for Nick Heidfeld losing valuable points in Barcelona.

Nelson Piquet's (Renault) crash at the "Marina Bay Circuit" signalled the start of the first safety-car phase at the first ever Formula One night race. This meant that the pit lane was closed, in order to give the safety-car the opportunity to rope in the leading cars. It was only reopened again two and a half laps later - too late for Robert. With dwindling fuel reserves, the Pole was forced to stop regardless, and was subsequently punished with a ten second penalty.

"This has ruined Robert's chances at a crucial point in the World Championship," said BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen. "I don't know whether we have lost second place - Robert was actually ahead of the eventual winner Alonso. I am very disappointed that the safety-car rule has affected us again."

In Barcelona it had been Nick who lost vital places in a similar situation. The German was actually leading the Spanish Grand Prix when he was forced to refuel during a safety-car phase, thus forfeiting any chance of picking up points.

Peter Sauber was also annoyed to have lost out again in the refuelling lottery. "We had a great chance of finishing on the podium, and scoring well in both title races," said the Swiss. "This rule is unfortunate, to be polite."