Theissen expects more progress from BMW

Theissen has seen his team become the third best in F1 this season and, although he has already admitted challenging for wins on pure pace will be impossible in 2007, development work at their Hinwil factory could change that scenario for next year.

"We have every reason to be satisfied with what we have achieved so far," said Theissen. "Our goal for 2007 was to make it onto the podium on our own merit.

"Nick (Heidfeld) already managed that in Montreal with his second place, at the same time claiming our best individual result so far. I am confident this will not be our last podium finish this year.

"We have clearly established ourselves as the third strongest team and we have no intention of relinquishing that position during the remainder of the season.

"For 2007 we have already notched up 56 points. Last year we finished the season with 36. We have come away from every Grand Prix with points."

He added: "I'm particularly pleased with all of this since we haven't yet completed our two-year development phase.

"The Hinwil factory extension won't be ready until the end of the year: that's when we will be operating at full power. I am convinced that the route we have chosen is the right one."