Robert Kubica’s accident turned out to be the best thing that could happen for Nick Heidfeld, as he suddenly turns from a reserve for Mercedes GP into the first driver for Lotus Renault GP. He replaces the injured driver for 2011 season.

Heidfeld begins with Lotus Renault GP at this week’s test session in Barcelona. Although we would like to see Kimi Raikkonen filing up Kubica’s seat, but the German driver seems to be the better option for the team, considering Kimi’s recent feud with Renault!

Since BMW pulled out of the sport we haven’t heard much about Heidfeld, but here’s his chance to get back in the game. The 33-year-old German is one of the most experienced drivers in Formula 1 having started 172 races over the last 11 seasons. He will race alongside Vitaly Petrov when the season gets underway in Bahrain on 13 March.

Nick Heidfeld: “I would have liked to come back to Formula 1 in different circumstances, but I’m proud to have been given this chance. Everything has happened so quickly, but I’ve been very impressed by what I have seen so far in terms of the facilities and the dedication of the people at Enstone. I really enjoyed the test last week in Jerez and I’ve already settled in well with the guys at the track. I have a good feeling for the car, which is quite innovative. I’m extremely motivated and can’t wait for the season to begin.”

Eric Boullier: “The team has been through a very difficult couple of weeks and we had to react quickly. We gave Nick a chance in Jerez last week and he really impressed us. He’s quick, experienced and is very strong technically with his feedback and understanding of the car. We always said the priority was to have an experienced driver in the car and we feel he is the ideal man for the job. We are pleased to welcome Nick to the team and look forward to a strong start to the season with him and Vitaly in Bahrain.”

Barcelona test session
The driving schedule for the upcoming Barcelona test (18-21 February) is as follows:

• Friday morning: Nick and Vitaly for pit-stop practice
• Friday afternoon: Vitaly
• Saturday: Nick
• Sunday: Vitaly
• Monday: Nick