Heidfeld in F1 ‘talks’

Germany's Nick Heidfeld is pretty such he won't be flicked off F1's fickle merry-go-round at the end of the year. The 28-year-old former Sauber and Jordan driver was signed by Williams to, effectively, warm Jenson Button's 2006 seat.

But, to many observers' wonder, 'Quick Nick' is not only ahead of countrymen Michael and Ralf Schumacher in the F1 standings, but also highly rated teammate Mark Webber.

''There have been loose talks with some teams,'' Heidfeld told f1.com, ''but it's much too early … to make a commitment for the next season. When the transfer carousel starts to move I want to be in the best possible situation.''

If he must move on, though, Heidfeld – once a Mercedes-Benz protégé and F3000 champion – won't resent Sir Frank.

Nick admitted that – for himself – the 'Jenson situation' was a 'lucky strike.' ''I'm grabbing (the opportunity) with both hands. I always knew that if I got the chance to drive for a top team, I would show good performance.' GMMf1NET