Eric Boullier has for the first time the name of Pedro de la Rosa as a potential replacement for Robert Kubica. Confirming that it is in talks with Spanish driver
Another former Sauber Nick Heidfeld, however, is in pole position for the seat of the R31, and tested the black car and gold this weekend.
Heidfeld, 33 years was with Renault in Jerez team yesterday Thursday.
"We are in discussions with of the rose, Heidfeld and Liuzzi," confirmed Boullier cited by sports daily Marca at Spain.
Even the manager of Heidfeld, Andre Theuerzeit insisted that "yet no one knows" If the German driver will run in Bahrain.
Boullier in statements to Auto Motor und Sport: "this year, with so many new things with the car, not cannot risk to go with a young driver".
"The experience will be vital, so there are not too many candidates."
French said that Heidfeld is a favorite.
"He's going to try on Saturday and on Sunday a day and a half." "If we believe it is our man, then will it be in the next test in Barcelona".
"If not, then we would have to prove one of the other drivers", said Boullier, referring to the rose and Vitantonio Liuzzi.
"Barcelona is our absolute deadline then we need to know who will be our race car driver."
He explained that Bruno Senna will also lead the R31 in Jerez to be the first pilot to reserve for 2011.
"If it happens something else (a race pilots), I want a driver who has been in the car," added Boullier. Romain Grosjean is currently racing in GP2 Asia Series in Abu Dhabi.
"If this (Kubica crash) happened in the middle of the season, then could have had the opportunity to a young pilot." "However, we must develop this car from scratch with someone with experience", insisted.
"On the role, the ideal substitute for Robert is Heidfeld," added Boullier.
