Next years tyre supplier, Pirelli, are keen to hold onto the services of Nick Heidfeld despite the fact the German will take-over Pedro de la Rosa’s role at Sauber next week.
The surprise appointment of the ex-Mercedes test driver at Sauber has led to rumours that the departing De la Rosa will join Pirelli to continue Heidfeld’s role.
However, the Italian tyre manufacturer are hoping to keep Heidfeld on their books to continue his role as well as his new one at the Hinwil based outfit.
“Nick is testing with us at Jerez this week and after that we’ll sit down with him and discuss the possibilities,” a Pirelli spokesperson told GPUpdate.
“The plan is to hold on to him, if possible, but obviously we need to see if there’s a logistical solution there.”
The solution presented to Heidfeld is quite unique, giving the fact he will have prior and detailed knowledge of the Pirelli tyres before any other driver, therefore giving the Sauber team a head-start in the 2011 development race.
This conflict of interests is likely to spark some reaction by the FIA.
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