Heidfeld looks forward

Nick Heidfeld believes it is time for Formula One to stop mourning the retirement of Michael Schumacher.

Seven-times world champion Schumacher brought the curtain down on his remarkable career at the end of last season. Since then many observers have claimed the sport will not be the same without the former Ferrari star - but fellow German Heidfeld feels Schumacher should be lauded, not lamented.

"People should be happy with Michael's achievements, instead of being sad about him leaving and things changing," said Heidfeld at the launch of the new BMW Sauber F1.07 in Valencia.

"I think it will be the supporters who will miss him, not just in Germany, but around the world. For me as a driver, it doesn't change things too much. I got on with him, but it's not as if we spent much time together.

"I would prefer him to still be around, but at the same time with me in a more competitive car to fight him. That's because I spent a lot of time last season watching him in my mirrors as he was lapping me."