Sauber Confident of Austin Recovery After Singapore 'Blip'

Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber team principal Jonathan Wheatley is optimistic his team will rebound from a disappointing Singapore Grand Prix at the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin. Despite a challenging weekend at Marina Bay, which saw Gabriel Bortoleto finish P17 and Nico Hulkenberg P20, Wheatley views the result as a 'blip' and expects a stronger performance at the Circuit of The Americas.

Why it matters:

After a wake-up call in Singapore, Sauber is eager to demonstrate continued progress as they build towards their transformation into Audi for the 2026 season. A strong showing in the remaining races, starting with Austin, is crucial for maintaining momentum and proving their upward trajectory in a highly competitive F1 grid.

The details:

• Singapore Setback: The Marina Bay Street Circuit proved difficult for Sauber, with both drivers struggling to find pace and finish outside the points. Wheatley described the weekend as a 'wake-up call,' emphasizing the need for the team to address its setup issues.
• Circuit Challenges: Wheatley acknowledged the unique difficulties presented by the upcoming circuits. Austin, for instance, is known for its bumpy track surface, requiring precise car setup. Mexico's high altitude and Qatar's specific demands also pose distinct engineering and driving challenges.
• Strategic Focus: The team's immediate goal is to get the car into its optimal operating window early in the weekend and build from there. This proactive approach aims to maximize their performance potential and secure more points before the season concludes.
• 2025 Resurgence: Following a dismal 2024 season with only four points, Sauber has shown significant improvement in 2025, accumulating 55 points so far. This includes a notable P3 podium finish for Nico Hulkenberg at the British Grand Prix, underscoring the team's progress.

What's next:

Sauber will look to capitalize on the remaining six races of the season, beginning with the United States Grand Prix, to demonstrate consistency and continue their upward trend. The team's performance in these diverse circuits will be key indicators of their preparedness for the significant transition to becoming the Audi factory team in 2026. Jonathan Wheatley, alongside Mattia Binotto, is at the forefront of this ambitious project, aiming to position the team as a formidable contender for the future.