BMW has concluded a three-year contract with Nick Heidfeld

A  new era in Formula 1 will begin on 1 January 2006 when BMW takes over the team operated by Peter Sauber," stated BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen.

"We are very pleased that Nick will be with us in what will undoubtedly be a difficult initial phase. He is not simply a fast and courageous driver, he is also an analytical and meticulous worker. Nick already knows the two sites in Munich and Hinwil, and is familiar with everybody involved.”

Heidfeld, who is currently recovering from a cycling accident in his adopted home of Switzerland, said: “I’m really looking forward to the future. As far as I’m concerned, this represents the fulfilment of a big dream. I have a great deal of respect for the work carried out in Hinwil from 2001 to 2003. And for nearly a year now, I’ve experienced at first hand the commitment and resources BMW puts into its Formula 1 project. Naturally, I’m not expecting a miracle during the first season after a new start in 2006. But I’m confident that the new team will be successful over the long term.”

“Overall, we will have a team numbering around 700," Theissen continued. "Expansion of the aerodynamic department in Hinwil has top priority. At present, it isn’t possible to fully exploit the opportunities offered by the first-class wind tunnel, because there are not the personnel to operate several shifts. We are gradually working towards using the facility round the clock.”