Nick Heidfeld looks set to be announced as Mercedes GP’s test and reserve driver, after failing to land a drive for the upcoming season.
The German had looked set to take the second seat at the Brackley-based squad only for his hopes to be dashed when Michael Schumacher announced his retirement.
Since then Heidfeld has saw possible non-paying drives, such as at BMW Sauber, dry up.
As a result the German’s manager, Andre Theuerzeit, has hinted that the driver will join Mercedes in the third driver role.
“Nick wants to concentrate fully on his job as test driver and support the regular drivers with his experience,” Theuerzeit told Auto Bild. “Nick had focused on having a [race] cockpit with the top teams, but their decisions were rather late. So we’ve gone for another opportunity.”
Reports suggest that the deal will be confirmed at the team’s launch in Stuttgart on Monday.
