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Brazil GP: Saturday Factbox
By BMW Sauber F1 Team
November 2 2008
In the final qualifying session of the 2008 season, Nick Heidfeld succeeded in gaining ground in the team-internal battle with Robert Kubica. During the course of the season he has out-qualified his team-mate five times while Robert was the faster BMW Sauber F1 Team driver in 13 qualifying sessions.
Impressive record: Every Grand Prix weekend of the 2008 season has seen at least one of the two BMW Sauber F1 Team drivers advance to the final qualifying phase. In Brazil, Nick was the one who did so by qualifying eighth, while Robert didn't make it to the top-ten shootout.

Proud BMW Motorsport Director: During an FIA press conference, Mario Theissen took his hat off to the performance of his staff. "I'm very proud of the guys," he said, "And I think together with the superb reliability we have had so far, the good race strategy and the good pit work, this is a very good foundation for next year."

Heidfeld the prophet: Like many others, Nick Heidfeld has a favourite when it comes to the battle for the Drivers' Championship. "I think that Lewis (Hamilton) has learned from the mistakes he has made in the past and will win. After all, he has a seven-point lead," said the 31-year-old. "On the other hand, I wouldn't begrudge Felipe (Massa) winning the title. We got to know each other when we were both racing for Sauber and got on well with one another right from the beginning."

Staff reorganisation: From Saturday, Walter Riedl will officially take over the responsibility for the operational business and line management. Furthermore, the 48-year-old will remain Managing Director of the Hinwil headquarters and project management. Willy Rampf, the team's Technical Director to date, will take up the post of Technical Coordinator but remains responsible for vehicle design and the team's operations at the race track.

Technical modifications: On Sunday, Formula One enthusiasts all over the world will see the cars in their current shape for the last time, as the regulations for the coming season have been changed in numerous areas. The aerodynamics, for instance, will be massively restricted and the grooved tyres are history as slicks will make their comeback in 2009.

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