Heidfeld may join Williams as tester

(GMM) Jordan's Nick Heidfeld may join Williams as a test driver in 2005, according to media speculation. British magazine Autosport said the rated German, reportedly not keen to spend another season wearing yellow, is possibly favorite to replace Grove's incumbent Marc Gene. The publication revealed that Williams will not renew the contract of Spanish-born Gene, who failed to shine as Ralf Schumacher's replacement racer in July. Gene, Autosport continued, will meet with Ferrari chiefs later this week and could be Luca Badoer's test cohort from next season. Indeed, Marc – who moved from Minardi to Williams in 2001 – was noted in discussion with world champion Michael Schumacher at the recent Jerez test. He is, perhaps significantly, also not testing for Williams at the Spanish location this week.