FORMULA ONE TEAM Sauber have confirmed that Nick Heidfeld will rejoin the team for the remainder of the season, replacing Pedro De La Rosa.

The thirty-three year old drove for Sauber from 2001 to 2003 and again from 2006 to 2009. At the end of the 2009 season, BMW pulled out of the Sauber team, leaving Heidfeld without a team.

“It was a hard decision,” Team principal Peter Sauber said in a statement. “By signing Nick we have a driver we know extremely well who will help us to further judge the comparative potential of our car.”

“For me it is like coming home, as I raced for seven years in total for the team from Hinwil,” Heidfeld said. “Without doubt I will be feeling at home straight away and this should help me to familiarize myself as soon as possible with the car.”

De La Rosa has had a disappointing season, getting just six championship points. The Spaniard  said: “I am surprised by the team’s decision, but I respect it and would like to wish everyone good luck for the remainder of the season,” De la Rosa said. “I still intend to be in Formula One for 2011.”

Heidfeld will become the sixth German driver in Formula One when he is paired with Kamui Kobayashi at Saubber next season.