Klien aims for a seat with the team surviving from BMW

The BMW-Sauber test driver, Christian Klien, would like to race next year with the Hinwil team (Sauber) still in search of a buyer to stay in the sport. The majority of BMW shareholders will leave F1 at the end of the season, but efforts have been made over the past few weeks to keep the Hinwil factory active in 2010 in Formula 1. Although there are uncertainties regarding the current drivers about their own futures, Klien hopes for a return to F1 with his current employer, even though he has confirmed being approached by other teams.

« There have been requests throughout the season, » said Klien on his official website. « In F1, everything is always in motion. New teams are very interested in experienced drivers, but with a certain long-term perspective. »

« At only 26 years old and with my sixth season in F1, I believe I can offer this compromise. Teams are currently looking for new drivers. Few will be on the transfer market. Despite the offers I’ve received, the team from Hinwil remains my first choice. The technical resources are substantial and the passion for racing that the team emphasizes perfectly aligns with my idea of an F1 team. »

Klien also admits to being shocked like the rest of the staff by BMW’s withdrawal, but hopes that the team can do something similar to Brawn GP (former Honda team): « In February, it was impossible to think that we would find ourselves a few months later in Honda’s position and thus possibly Brawn GP’s. As for me personally and like most drivers, I am in a waiting position today. »

« As soon as the first changes appear in one place, things will move quickly. By 2010, there will be more jobs for F1 drivers than before, but not more Grand Prix drivers with experience in the market. I think I am in a pretty good position. »