The Sauber team reflects positively on the Australian Grand Prix. Thanks in part to the poor weather conditions in Melbourne, newcomer Nico Hülkenberg had the opportunity to place his bright green C45 directly in the top ten. The German crossed the finish line in seventh place, scoring more points than the team had collected in all of 2024. “An encouraging start,” said CEO Mattia Binotto, who is hoping for a turnaround from last year.
“An encouraging start to the new season, but now we focus on the next race weekend,” Binotto stated in a recent press release. “The changeable weather allowed us to gather crucial data on how the car performs under different conditions. The team performed flawlessly, a positive plus. That being said, it’s also clear that the weather helped us score points. We know where we stand; overall, the car still needs to be improved to consistently fight for points.”
‘Positive Momentum’
Driver Nico Hülkenberg hopes that Sauber can use the strong result in Australia as positive momentum. The team is working towards a takeover by Audi in 2026 and needs to use this season to create a solid foundation for a competitive team. From the Japanese Grand Prix onwards, the Swiss racing team will also be strengthened by former Red Bull top man Jonathan Wheatley.
With the sprint weekend in Shanghai in mind, Hülkenberg mainly hopes to learn more about the behavior of his car. “Our approach remains the same,” he responded. “We need to get the most out of every session of the weekend and gather as much information as possible. It’s a circuit where I’ve enjoyed racing in the past. The goal is to be in a good position from the start and continue to make progress.”
For rookie Gabriel Bortoleto, the weekend was less successful. The young Brazilian, who was a champion in both Formula 3 and Formula 2, did not reach the finish line during his debut in the premier class. The rain showers in Melbourne took their toll; he crashed in the final stages of the Grand Prix, simultaneously with Red Bull debutant Liam Lawson. “It was an important learning moment,” Bortoleto said afterwards. “I look forward to applying those lessons in a new race weekend. The Shanghai International Circuit is definitely a demanding track, but I’m excited to drive there for the first time. My goal is to take another step forward.”
Nico Hülkenberg scored more points during his debut for the Sauber team than the team had collected in all of 2024 (Sauber).
