First, it left us stranded due to a stuck charger, and then it made us smile from ear to...
Formula One veteran Nick Heidfeld has now formally split with the Lotus Renault team after reaching a settlement.
In effect, Bruno Senna is now free to finish the season for the team. He had been confirmed initially only for last week's race at Spa-Francorchamps and next week's event at Monza, pending a legal hearing in London which had been scheduled for Sept. 19 but is now preempted by the out-of-court deal.
After being dropped before Spa, Heidfeld showed up at the Belgian track wearing team gear in an attempt to show that he was fulfilling his contractual obligations.
A statement from the team said, “Lotus Renault GP and Nick Heidfeld have reached an amicable settlement today and have chosen to part company with immediate effect. This announcement enables both parties to bring the matter to a close and concentrate on their respective sporting challenges in the future.
“Our disagreement with Nick has been the subject of much media coverage lately,” said team boss Eric Boullier, “and we are pleased to have reached a swift and reasonable solution. Our separation process was already a painful one, and neither of us wanted to go through another legal hearing.
“We're very grateful to Nick for the highly valuable contribution he's made to the team. We certainly had good times together, in particular remembering our podium finish in Malaysia. He is a very strong and determined racer and we wish him every success in the future.”
Heidfeld commented, “Obviously I'm disappointed to be leaving Lotus Renault GP in the middle of the season. I thought I could still make a big contribution to the team, but I have to see things as they are and I want to turn my attention to the future. We have taken the right decision by choosing to end our collaboration today. I would like to wish all the friends I made at Enstone a successful end to the season. One thing is for sure--I'll be back racing at the highest level soon.”
The team added that “both parties consider the matter settled and will refrain from making any further public statements on the issue in the future.”
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