Heidfeld wields secret weapon for Monza
The 30-year-old and his young teammate Robert Kubica have never climbed to the top step of the podium, and neither has their Hinwil based team chiefs.
But with Monza renowned as a specialist circuit for BMW, and off the back of the team's reinforcement of their position this year as the third force in F1, Heidfeld confirmed that the outfit is particularly looking forward to the high-speed curves and long straights of the Autodromo Nazionale.
He told Sport Bild that the four-day Monza test for the team "went very well" last week, "although I have to admit that I thought we might have looked even better."
Heidfeld said: "We don't know how much fuel Ferrari and McLaren were using, and my feeling is that McLaren are still a bit in front of us.
"But with Ferrari, I think we are on their level. Whatever the case, we are not far away — and with a bit of luck, anything can happen," he added.
The German said it is not a surprise that BMW enters the race as a dark horse.
"For me it was clear that we would be looking good for Monza. The circuit is similar to Canada, where I was second," Heidfeld commented.
He also has a secret weapon for his potential battles with McLaren and Ferrari drivers this weekend — the fact that he has nothing to lose.
"In a tight spot, those who fight for the titles will be backing off," Heidfeld agreed.