Heidfeld rules out German repeat

Nick Heidfeld has ruled out the prospect of a repeat of his feat on his last visit to Germany just seven weeks ago.

Heidfeld produced the best performance of his 96-race career when he qualified on pole for the European Grand Prix at the Nurburgring before taking second place behind current championship leader Fernando Alonso.

On home soil, and with his Williams backed by German engine giants BMW, the result was almost perfect for the Monchengladbach-born 28-year-old.

But Heidfeld has warned fans to forget a similar display in Sunday’s German Grand Prix at Hockenheim, as the team overall have since struggled miserably.

“I think the chances of us getting a pole and a podium this weekend are a lot worse,” exclaimed Heidfeld.

“It is still enjoyable to race at a home grand prix, especially here because the crowd creates the most special atmosphere of the whole calendar.

“I just hope we can score some points, which doesn’t sound like a BMW-Williams aim, but if you look at the last two races we’ve not even been in a position to achieve that.

“At last week’s test in Jerez we did improve the car quite a bit, in particular on the mechanical-side and with some small improvements on the aero-side, with more to come this weekend.

“So if we can improve further, then hopefully we can get some points.”

Heidfeld also feels compatriot Michael Schumacher has no chance of emulating his race win of a year ago, and that ultimately a sixth successive world title is beyond him.

When asked whether the Ferrari ace was in with a shout of another crown, Heidfeld replied: “No, I don’t think he can make it any more.”

So it was to Heidfeld’s delight he found himself stepping out of Schumacher’s shadow at the start of the season as he made a name for himself, outscoring the seven-times world champion.

“It was special to be in front of Michael, not because he is a German driver but because he and Ferrari have dominated the last few years,” enthused Heidfeld.

“I want to be in front of all the drivers, but to be in front of the world champion, that was the best part.

“But I don’t know why they have their problems, and from what I hear and read they also don’t know why.

“A lot of times they struggle in qualifying, although in the race they’re quite strong.

“Maybe if they get that sorted they will be a lot stronger, but they are definitely nothing compared to the last two or three years.”