Alfa Romeo Racing has unveiled its 2019 challenger, the C38, in its full livery at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
Alfa Romeo returned to Formula 1 as title sponsor to Sauber in 2018 and the operation finished eighth in the Constructors’ Championship.
The Hinwil-based team was rejuvenated by fresh investment, a recruitment drive, and the aforementioned link with Alfa Romeo, having emerged from years of on- and off-track troubles.
In 2018 Sauber had started the year towards the rear of the field but made gains to finish the campaign as one of Formula 1’s most competitive midfield operations.
It was announced at the start of the month that the team would be rebranded as Alfa Romeo Racing for 2019, though its Sauber ownership and management remains in place.
The team’s improvement under Frederic Vasseur was a key factor in swaying 2007 World Champion Kimi Raikkonen to return on a two-year deal, having previously raced for the team in 2001.
Raikkonen will be partnered at the team by Ferrari-linked Antonio Giovinazzi, who participated in test and practice outings through 2017 (for Haas) and 2018.
Giovinazzi previously started two Grands Prix in 2017 for Sauber as a late replacement for the unfit/injured Pascal Wehrlein.
Marcus Ericsson will ostensibly act as a reserve driver after losing his seat, though his priority will be on his IndyCar programme with the Arrow Schmidt Peterson Motorsports team.
The new car was unveiled in the pit lane on Monday morning at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, shortly before the start of pre-season testing at the venue.
It was already shaken down by Raikkonen at Fiorano last Thursday, with the car decked out in a special 'love' livery to mark Valentine's Day.
