Heidfeld urged to up his game

Bernie: French GP unlikely to return before 2011 Flav: Renault back to their best Webber to miss winter testing New qualy format up for discussion Rossi: I felt like a real F1 driver Webber undergoes surgery on injured leg Bernie: It's like Beckham saying no to ManU Webber seriously injured in bike ride Rossi: The potential is definitely there Bourdais: Money could decide STR seats

Thursday 28th August 2008

Nick Heidfeld's future with BMW has once again been thrown into doubt after Mario Theissen urged him to up his game or risk not getting a new contract.

Heidfeld has been outdone by his lesser experienced team-mate this season with Robert Kubica the one to bag BMW's maiden pole position as well as the German outfit's first ever grand prix win.

Qualifying has proven to be a huge problem for Heidfeld, who has lost out 1 to 11 against Kubica, which in turn is affecting his race results. After 12 events he trails Kubica by 14 points in the Drivers' standings.

When asked if Heidfeld would be retained next season, team boss Theissen told Autosport: "I am not sure. What we saw in Valencia was mixed again and, in the second run in qualifying two, it was almost a perfect lap.

"He was struggling before in two specific areas of the track and in that one lap he was able to do that very cleanly.

"I hope it gives him the confidence to be strong again in the races, he has been strong, I think he will be back on track."

But while Heidfeld will need a few grands prix in which to up his game and prove himself to his team boss, Kubica will reportedly be confirmed as a 2009 BMW driver within the next few days.