Heidfeld in demand

UPDATE Speculation is rife that Nick Heidfeld, a revelation of 2005, will soon set a course for Brackley to sign a provisional 2006 contract for BAR. Williams' current star, easily a match – if not Grove team leader – for highly rated teammate Mark Webber, will reportedly switch to take the seat alongside the also-unconfirmed Rubens Barrichello, despite equally strong gossip of a BMW-Sauber move.

Williams-contracted Jenson Button's move, although he doesn't want to go, makes room, to the detriment of '05 BAR teammate, Japan's Takuma Sato.

The little German's switch, though – like Button – could be scuppered by Sir Frank Williams, who is believed to own a watertight 'option' on Heidfeld's service for next year.

'Quick Nick', however, can probably rest easy. It appears that disappointing Renault driver Giancarlo Fisichella is en route to Grove, in a swap that could see Webber fill his blue boots. Williams' Heidfeld option reportedly runs out next month.

08/11/05 Nick Heidfeld is a wanted man. No less than three F1 teams want him. Williams wants to keep him, BMW wants him at their new Sauber team and BAR Honda wants him to replace Takuma Sato. BAR Honda has signed a letter of intent for $5 million with Nick Heidfeld in case he is free for 2006. Williams has an option on Nick through September 11th.