The off-season is over, this weekend the Australian Grand Prix will take place in Melbourne's Albert Park, and the Sauber team will start the 2025 championship with a completely renewed line-up: Formula 1 veteran Nico Hulkenberg, who has already taken part in 277 races, and absolute debutant Gabriel Bortoleto.
Mattia Binotto , Team Principal: “The start of a new season is always a very important moment, marking the beginning of a long journey of 24 races. We have worked hard over the winter and are now ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
The season promises to be difficult and we understand that the modernization process will play a key role, without which we will not achieve progress. Even if we have to prepare more and more intensively for 2026, we will try to achieve constant improvements and will use every opportunity to do so.
We intend to use this season to strengthen the foundations for future success, as we have long-term plans and will work towards this throughout the year.”
Nico Hulkenberg: “We are returning to Melbourne – and it's great! The city and its Albert Park have a unique atmosphere, and the mood at the start of the season is always special, especially since I am starting the season with a new team.
We are ready to take on this challenge and together with our team we intend to focus all our attention on progress, striving for continuous improvement in all important areas.
We are realistic about the tasks ahead and all the challenges that await us, but we are confident that we can make progress and I can’t wait for the season to start!”
Gabriel Bortoleto: “I am incredibly excited about my Formula 1 debut – I have been working for this moment for a long time and it has finally arrived.
Working with the team in the build-up to the season has been great and I feel like we have made good progress in understanding the car and working together. I am now fully focused on making the most of every session.
I have a lot to learn, but I am up for the challenge. Every race is an opportunity to improve and I am committed to giving it my all to move forward with the team throughout the season.”
Source