Nick Heidfeld is relishing his return to Formula One this weekend after almost a year on the sidelines.
Heidfeld begins his third spell with Sauber in Singapore after the team last week opted to dispense with the services of Pedro de la Rosa following an ineffective season.
Heidfeld will now drive for the team in the final five grands prix, with the likelihood he will be retained for next season alongside Japan's Kamui Kobayashi should he perform well.
But after serving as test and reserve driver with Mercedes before a short spell as test driver for Pirelli, Heidfeld is now itching for competitive action after a 10-month break.
‘I can't wait to get back in the car,’ said Heidfeld, who drove for Sauber from 2001-2003 and then BMW Sauber from 2006-2009.
‘I'm not just very much looking forward to going racing again, but I regard it as a special bonus my first race will be the Singapore Grand Prix.
‘Two years ago this race immediately became one of my favourites.
‘Even for a city circuit it is quite demanding, and the atmosphere at this night race is simply massive.’
Although it is 10 months since Heidfeld last drove for the team, albeit at a time when BMW were the dominant partner, the race will still represent a step into the unknown for the 33-year-old German.
‘Of course, I can hardly imagine how the circuit will suit the car as I haven't driven it yet,’ added Heidfeld.
‘But according to everything I saw and from what I have heard, the performance should be better in Singapore compared to Monza (the last race in Italy.’
