It was a bit of a surprise to see Nick Heidfeld make the move from Mercedes test driver to working with Pirelli on next year's tyres. It is less of a surprise to find him back on the F1 grid again - this time with his old team BMW Sauber. Heidfeld will replace Pedro de la Rosa for the Singapore Grand Prix and onwards for the rest of the season.

A few quotes from all involved - Pedro is gracious, but I suspect a little broken by the news:

I am surprised by the team's decision, but I respect it and would like to wish everyone good luck for the remainder of the season. I still intend to be in Formula 1 for 2011.

- Pedro de la Rosa

Where can he fit in the 2011 grid? Place your bets now. Meanwhile, team principal Peter Sauber says of his new signing:

It was a hard decision for me to make as a team principal and I want to thank Pedro for his professionalism. By signing Nick we have a driver we know extremely well who will help us to further judge the comparative potential of our car.

- Peter Sauber

Nick himself is, of course, understandably happy about the news and looking forward to proving what he can do for the rest of the season. What can he do, though? He's a strong driver, dependable and shows flashes of speed, but he has never really proven himself to be a real F1 contender, has he? What do you make of this news and where does it leave our drivers in the future?