BMW confirm Kubica, Heidfeld for 2007

Kubica, who was the team's third driver before being promoted to the racing seat when Jacques Villeneuve left the squad, was widely expected to land the second seat alongside Heidfeld after impressing in his racing outings this year.

Kubica finished on the podium in only his third Grand Prix at Monza.

"We are very pleased with our drivers and believe we have a good line-up for the future," said BMW motorsport boss Mario Theissen. "Nick was already a firm fixture for 2007. He is the experienced driver in the team, both in terms of Formula One and from the point of view of his affiliation with the team.

"Robert, before he was signed as a test driver less than a year ago, was an unknown quantity. From the outset he made an outstanding impression on his test drives and in the Friday practice sessions.

"The reward was the switch to a racing cockpit in Budapest, a move that was vindicated when, in only his third Grand Prix, he made it onto the podium."

Kubica added: "For me to be confirmed as a driver for the team in 2007 proves that in the last five races I have done the job expected of me. Although we still have the season's final race to go, I feel I can start my 2007 season now.

"It is a good feeling when you know exactly what your racing plans will be and I think any driver who can approach the next season before the current one is finished can really be properly prepared.

"The experience I have gained this year as a Friday driver up to the Hungarian Grand Prix also means that I shall know the tracks from this year we will be racing on and, therefore, have some valuable data for the start of each Grand Prix weekend.

" The BMW Sauber team has given me a great opportunity and I want to thank Mario Theissen and the team for this."

BMW also confirmed German teenager Sebastian Vettel has been promoted to regular test and reserve driver following his outings at a Friday driver this year.

"I'm over the moon," declared Vettel. "This is a tremendous step in the right direction. I have always dreamed of sitting in the cockpit of such a fast car on a regular basis. The task that awaits me is clear: I will do everything to help the team as a test driver and to push developments forward.

"I would like to thank the whole team for the trust they have placed in me, and also for giving me the opportunity earlier this season of being regularly involved as the Friday driver. It has paid off."