Aug.25 (GMM) Nick Heidfeld has made an appearance in the Spa-Francorchamps paddock as he bids to hold on to his Renault race seat.

Although still wearing a team shirt, the veteran German has been dropped for Belgium and also Monza in two weeks in deference to Bruno Senna, who is reportedly carrying some Brazilian sponsorship.

But Heidfeld told reporters his contract remains valid.

Both Senna and also Renault on Thursday referred to "legal issues" that are holding up the confirmation of Vitaly Petrov's new teammate for the remainder of 2011.

Heidfeld, 34, suggested the matter will be cleared up in a few weeks.

"The team's present intention is to give Bruno the opportunity to race for the rest of the season.

"However, some legal issues have not been fully resolved as yet and, as a result, the team will make another announcement on this matter in due course," said Renault in a statement.

The team confirmed that Heidfeld "remains contracted to the team".

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