Frentzen rejoins Sauber

Frentzen, a free agent since his contract with Arrows was cancelled by mutual consent before the Hungarian Grand Prix, made his grand prix debut for the team in 1994, and rejoins Sauber on a one-year contract.

"My relationship with Peter Sauber has always been something special," said Frentzen. "He gave me the chance in Formula One and with that the basis for my career. Sauber's performance has impressed me tremendously over the years and I am convinced that together we will achieve a lot."

Peter Sauber was delighted to have re-signed the German who first drove for his team in Sauber's Mercedes World Sportscar Championship programme. "The decisive factor was Heinz-Harald's performance this year, which impressed us deeply," said Sauber. "He is not only one of the fastest drivers in Formula 1, he also knows how to move a team forward and has proven that he is still highly motivated."

Sauber has also taken up the option to extend their partnership with Heidfeld into a third season. "The extension of Nick's contract was a formality," said Sauber. "He has done an excellent job for our team and feels at him with us."

Current race driver Felipe Massa, who has finished in the points three times in his debut season, has been offered the role of test and reserve driver with the team.

"The decision to replace Felipe was not easy for me," said Sauber. "I hope that he will accept our offer as test and substitute driver and we continue to be very interested in his development as a driver."