Heidfeld to drive for new BMW team next season

Heidfeld said: "As far as I'm concerned, this represents the fulfilment of a big dream. I have a great deal of respect for the work carried out [at the BMW factory] in Hinwil [Switzerland] from 2001 to 2003. And for nearly a year now, I've experienced at first hand the commitment and resources BMW puts into its Formula One project."

Heidfeld raced for Sauber for three years but was dropped at the end of 2003, then spent a season at struggling Jordan. But he has restored his reputation this year and impressed Williams' engine partner, BMW.