Heidfeld can't wait to race again

The German has replaced Spaniard Pedro de la Rosa for the remaining races of the season at the Sauber team, having been working as Pirelli's development driver since last month.

The Singapore event will be Heidfeld's first race since the end of last season, and the Sauber driver admitted he is eager to get back behind the wheel.

"I can't wait to get back in the race car," said Heidfeld. "I'm not just very much looking forward to going racing again, as I regard it as a special bonus that my first race will be the Singapore Grand Prix. Two years ago this race immediately became one of my favourites.

"Of course I can hardly imagine how the circuit will suit the car as I haven't driven it yet, but according to everything I saw and from what I have heard, the performance should be better in Singapore compared to Monza. Another positive thing is we found out I probably can use my seat from last year.

"This does not only save a lot of work, but it also gives me a good feeling because it was a very good seat and normally you have to do a lot of fine tuning until it fits that well. I'm also very much looking forward to really getting to know James Key and my team-mate, Kamui, and working with both of them."

Team-mate Kamui Kobayashi believes the team will have a stronger weekend than at Monza, despite not having driven at the Marina Bay circuit yet.

"I have never raced in Singapore, but I know the track from the simulator," he said. "I believe in terms of performance we should be able to do better in Singapore than in Monza.

"I must admit I would really like to have a good result in my pocket when we head to my home grand prix in Suzuka. It is exciting to get a new team mate during the season and I'm curious about working with Nick."