BMW Sauber F1 Team - USA Grand Prix - Driver Line-up
Sebastian Vettel to step in for Robert Kubica in
Indianapolis.
Indianapolis (Indiana, USA), 14th June 2007. After Robert
Kubica did not get the green light from the FIA Medical Delegate
and the race's Director of Medical Services to compete in
the 2007 U.S. Grand Prix, the team has nominated Sebastian
Vettel to drive the second BMW Sauber F1.07 (car number 10)
alongside Nick Heidfeld.
For Sebastian Vettel this will be his Formula One race debut.
"Of course, I am looking forward to my first F1 race",
the 19-year old German said, "but I wish it had come
under different circumstances. It's never nice if a team mate
can't drive because he had an accident. For me the Indianapolis
Speedway is unknown territory, but I have prepared myself
for this situation and tomorrow I have two 90 minute practice
sessions. I know the car very well as I have quite a lot of
testing miles under my belt."
The team's second test driver, Timo Glock, is also in Indianapolis
and will now be nominated as the reserve driver.
Robert Kubica commented after the decision:
"Naturally I'm disappointed because I felt absolutely
ready to race. But I respect the decision. It was made because
there is too much risk to let me race in this Grand Prix in
case I have had another impact so soon after Montréal.
I will go home now. I wish Sebastian all the best. It is good
for him and I am pretty sure he will do a good job."
BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen:
"In reviewing the accident and medical examination the
doctors did not give Robert the green light to race. There
will be another medical check before the race in Magny-Cours.
Although the doctors see Robert in a remarkably good condition
they will not let him race here mainly because of the risk
of another impact. We respect the decision of the medical
personnel. The team was prepared for this situation. Sebastian
will receive all possible support from us and we hope for
another good race here."
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