Mercedes GP confirm Heidfeld

German named test and reserve driver

Last updated: 4th February 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Mercedes GP confirm Heidfeld

Heidfeld: Joined Mercedes GP

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German Nick Heidfeld will fill the role of Mercedes GP test and reserve driver during the 2010 season, it has been confirmed.

The former BMW-Sauber racer was linked with many teams during the off-season including Renault, Lotus, Sauber and Mercedes themselves.

However, with a race seat failing to materialise the German has now accepted a back-up role with the Brackley-based team.

"I am very pleased to be joining the Mercedes GP Petronas Formula 1 Team," said Heidfeld.

"It's the team which has attracted the most interest in the close season, not only because of the comeback of Michael Schumacher, but also because this season sees the return of the Silver Arrows cars as a Mercedes-Benz works team for the first time in over 50 years.

"While I would of course have preferred a seat as an active driver, I am really proud to be part of the new Silver Arrows team. I have seen how committed everyone at the team is and I feel the same. I will be doing my very best to support Michael and Nico this year," he added.

Mercedes GP now boast an all-German driver line-up with Heidfeld joining compatriots Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg at the team.