''I think I am in a good position''Nick Heidfeld says he is 'optimistic' about securing a new contract at BMW Sauber beyond 2007.
The 29-year-old German has enjoyed a strong start to the season scoring 15 points from the first three races, bringing into focus his
expiring contract with the team and rumours of a switch.
But at a sponsor function in Munich late last week, where Heidfeld appeared apparently with a bout of the 'flu or a cold, he referred to his existing employer whilst telling reporters: "I cannot see many reasons why we would not want to keep working together."
"I am optimistic, because (team boss Mario Theissen) also said that there are good reasons for us to go on."
Unlike in previous years, for example late in 2003 when only an uncompetitive Jordan team could give Heidfeld refuge on the grid, the German sees himself with a strong bargaining position for 2008.
According to the news agency dpa, he said: "I am doing the same job as I always have done; just the car is different this time."
"But it is always nice, of course, to approach these situations not having to explain why things did not work out. I think I am in a good position."
Theissen, however - apparently unperturbed by the Toyota and Honda gossip - insists that there is 'no rush' to pen a new agreement with Heidfeld.
He revealed: "We are speaking, of course, but we won't be giving any progress reports."
"We will make a decision before the end of the season and then announce that decision in due course."
Source GMM
