Despite a tough time so far this season and having dealt with a car that wasn't always on pace, Heidfeld has nevertheless managed to keep the car together well enough to cross the finish line. His 25th straight finish came at Barcelona - coincidentally on his 32nd birthday.
"I would like to say a big thank you to the BMW Sauber F1 Team for the stability of the car, which obviously played a major rold in this record," said Heidfeld. "I am pleased to have set a new record...especially on my birthday."
To some eyes, nestled in Heidfeld's thanks to the team is a critique of the car's lack of pace. The car has been very consistent, but despite finishing 25 races, Heidfeld has yet to claim a victory in F1 and has claimed just one podium this season, taking second in Malaysia.
Nevertheless, Heidfeld' can be proud of his latest achievement. It is a difficult mark to hit in a sport so focused on pushing the outer limits of both human and mechanical capability.