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Erik BuyeRenault Team Chief
Country:
 France |
Content:
- Nick Heidfeld Impresses Lotus-Renault Boss
- Heidfeld's Leadership Qualities
- Heidfeld as Team Leader
- Heidfeld's Experience and Technical Skills
- Heidfeld's Prior Consideration
- Kubica's Endorsement
Nick Heidfeld Impresses Lotus-Renault Boss
Eric Boullier, Team Principal of Lotus-Renault, lauds the rapid integration of Nick Heidfeld into the team following his arrival as a replacement for the injured Robert Kubica. Heidfeld has showcased his abilities during preseason testing, winning in Jerez and finishing fourth in Barcelona.
Heidfeld's Leadership Qualities
Boullier highlights Heidfeld's leadership skills, noting his seamless communication with engineers and technicians. He credits Heidfeld's early discussions and collaboration for the team's positive outlook.
Heidfeld as Team Leader
Boullier indicates that Heidfeld is the likely number one driver for Lotus-Renault in the upcoming season, emphasizing the German's potential to lead the team. While Vitaly Petrov has a two-year contract, his future with the team may depend on his performance.
Heidfeld's Experience and Technical Skills
Boullier praises Heidfeld's quick adaptation and technical proficiency. He notes that Heidfeld's familiarity with the KERS system and Pirelli tires, as well as his experience using KERS in 2009, made him an ideal choice.
Heidfeld's Prior Consideration
Boullier admits that Heidfeld was considered as a second driver option for the team during the offseason, before Petrov was ultimately chosen. However, following Kubica's accident, Heidfeld emerged as the preferred candidate.
Kubica's Endorsement
Boullier reveals that Kubica, upon regaining consciousness after his accident, suggested Heidfeld and Luca di Grassi as potential replacements. This endorsement further supported the team's decision to sign Heidfeld.
