Sauber has released images of its C37, the car with which it hopes to rise up Formula 1’s pecking order after a challenging few years.
The C37-Ferrari, which will be raced by Charles Leclerc and Marcus Ericsson, features a revised white and burgundy livery, as a result of Sauber’s new partnership with Alfa Romeo.
“I am very much looking forward to the 2018 season, and to seeing Marcus and Charles on track,” said team boss Frederic Vasseur.
“We have put lots of effort and hard work into the C37 over the last few months, and it is fantastic to be launching the new car today.
“I am convinced that Marcus and Charles form the perfect driver line-up, with one being an experienced driver and one a promising rookie.
“Marcus is going into his fourth season with us. He is a valuable part of the team, and we benefit from his experience and precise technical feedback.
“As for Charles, he has proven his talent in prior categories and deserves to be on the Formula 1 grid this season.”
Video: Watch Alfa Romeo Sauber unveil its C37
Sauber, a staple of Formula 1’s midfield, regressed through the pack upon the sport’s switch to V6 power units, accentuating its perilous financial predicament.
The team was sold to Longbow Finance mid-2016 and underwent more upheaval through 2017, as Monisha Kaltenborn was replaced by Vasseur, who cancelled a planned Honda partnership in order to strengthen ties with Ferrari.
The increased link with Ferrari has facilitated title sponsorship from Alfa Romeo, which returns to the sport after a lengthy absence, with the marque’s junior driver Leclerc joining incumbent Ericsson.
Leclerc romped to last year’s Formula 2 title during his sole season in the series, and conducted practice and test runs with Sauber towards the end of the campaign.
Ericsson, meanwhile, will stay on for his fourth season at Sauber, and fifth overall in Formula 1, having been given the nod over Ferrari reserve pilot Antonio Giovinazzi.
Giovinazzi, having participated in the opening two Grands Prix of 2017 in place of the now-ousted Pascal Wehrlein, is set for six Friday practice sessions with Sauber as he strives for a full-time seat.
Sauber has targeted a return to the midfield group in 2018, in the wake of finishing 10th in three of the past four years, scoring just seven points across 2016/17.
The squad has also announced four new sponsors in the build-up to its car unveiling in the form of Richard Mille, Carrera, Kappa and Claro.
Discussion about this post