2006 Review: The first podium for BMW-Sauber

By BMW Sauber F1 Team
December 13 2006

After some unfortunate races, things started looking up again in Budapest. In chaotic, wet conditions, Nick Heidfeld clinched the first podium place for the new BMW Sauber F1 Team. Robert Kubica celebrated his debut as GP driver.

Robert had replaced Jacques Villeneuve in the second BMW Sauber F1.06 and the team did without a Friday driver. The first Polish driver in Formula One started from ninth on the grid just in front of Nick. Over the course of the race, Robert skidded twice in extremely difficult conditions and a repair stop put paid to his race strategy.

The young gun drove 51 laps on intermediates, latterly on a dry track. The result was extreme and unexpected rubber loss, which meant his car was ultimately two kilograms under the stipulated weight. The Pole had fought his way up into seventh place but had to relinquish his first two championship points.

Meanwhile, wet race aficionado Nick had carved his way through the field, benefited from outstanding pit stops and finished third, although his car was damaged after Michael Schumacher needlessly drove into his rear in the final stages of the race. The first podium finish of the BMW Sauber F1 Team had become reality.