Heidfeld in favour of return slicks

During last week's test at Jerez, the BMW Sauber F1 Team had the opportunity of running un-grooved tyres. Nick Heidfeld would welcome the return of slicks. In 1998, Formula One switched from slicks to grooved tyres. Almost ten years later, discussion regarding the reintroduction of slick tyres is on the agenda. During the tests held last week at Jerez, Bridgestone provided the teams with slicks for testing purposes. A return to this tyre spec seems to be within the realms of possibility for 2009.

Nick Heidfeld is of the opinion that a return to slicks would represent a positive move. "I never understand why they were abolished," says the German BMW Sauber F1 Team driver. "I'm absolutely in favour of the return of slicks."

"The only area where the cars are slowed down by the grooved tyres are the slow corners while this isn't the case in fast sections where it would be vital for safety. Furthermore, I think that overtaking would become somewhat easier again on slicks," adds Nick. Irrespective of the result of the slick tests, the 2008 season will definitely be contested on grooved tyres supplied by Bridgestone.