De la Rosa out, Heidfeld in at Sauber

Sauber Motorsport announces a driver change: From the Singapore Grand Prix, 23rd to 26th of September 2010, until the end of the season Nick Heidfeld will be driving the second C29 alongside Japan’s Kamui Kobayashi. Thirty three-year-old Heidfeld from Germany replaces Spaniard Pedro de la Rosa (39). The team’s contract with Nick Heidfeld comes into effect on Friday, 17th September.

Team Principal Peter Sauber said: “It was a hard decision for me to make as a Team Principal and I want to thank Pedro for his professionalism. By signing Nick we have a driver we know extremely well who will help us to further judge the comparative potential of our car.”

Pedro de la Rosa: “I am surprised by the team´s decision, but I respect it and would like to wish everyone good luck for the remainder of the season. I still intend to be in Formula One for 2011.”

Nick Heidfeld: “I’m looking forward like crazy to having the opportunity to go racing again in a good car in Formula One from the Singapore Grand Prix onwards. After the last months I’m even more motivated than ever. For me it is like coming home, as I raced for seven years in total for the team from Hinwil. Without doubt I will be feeling at home straight away and this should help me to familiarise myself as soon as possible with the car. I want to thank Peter Sauber for the faith he has put in me.”