Heidfeld not affected by Spa loss

The race was scheduled for September 17 but had been in doubt for several weeks because of problems over who would promote it after the previous promoter went bankrupt due to poor ticket sales.

Organisers withdrew this year's race from the calendar in order to allow the Spa track to be improved.

Heidfeld says it will not be a big loss for him.

"Obviously it's a pity that the Belgian Grand Prix is no longer a part of the season," Heidfeld said on his team's website. "Spa is an extraordinary circuit and a favourite track for many drivers. But I don't feel this way, hence, the loss doesn't hurt me that much.

"Suzuka is my favourite circuit. The venue of the Japanese Grand Prix is long and truly challenging. I just love Suzuka's 'Esses'. If you don't find the perfect line in the first bend, you lose a lot of time in the second. At the same time, Melbourne is another circuit I'm really fond of.

"In the past, it used to be the venue of the season opener, therefore, it was always a special pleasure to travel to Australia."