Formula One news

BMW exit 'totally unexpected' for Heidfeld

Nick Heidfeld has admitted that he was astounded to learn of BMW's departure from Formula One on Wednesday. During a press conference put together at last minute, the German manufacturer announced that it will no longer be in F1 after 2009, much to the amazement of its home-grown driver.

Heidfeld has finished second on six occasions for BMW

With Heidfeld's contract set to expire at the end of this season, the German had already admitted that a number of possibilities could be available in terms of teams for next year although the 32-year-old was unaware of any plans for BMW, his team since 2006, to leave the sport.

"BMW's decision to no longer compete in Formula One was totally unexpected," Heidfeld posted on his website. "I feel very sorry for the members of the team with whom it has been my privilege to work with over the years. I would like to thank all of them for their tremendous support and for everything we have achieved together.

"I'm not going to lose sight of my ambition to reach the top in Formula One. I'll be doing my best to support the team and ensure that we get the best possible finish to the season. As far as my personal future is concerned, we'll now be continuing discussions under these changed circumstances."

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