Sauber F1 Team

Sauber is one of Formula 1’s longest-standing privateer outfits, combining Swiss engineering precision with a tradition of developing young talent. Operating from Hinwil, Switzerland, the team is preparing for its transformation into the Audi F1 Team in 2026.

Nico Hulkenberg on track during qualifying for the F1 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix | Sauber

Current Sauber F1 drivers

In 2025, the driver duo is Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, blending veteran expertise with rookie enthusiasm as Sauber plots its next chapter.

Nico Hülkenberg

The seasoned German returned to the team in 2025, delivering strong technical feedback and leadership. At the British Grand Prix, he scored a podium, the team’s first since 2012.

Driver Profile
Third placed Nico Hulkenberg celebrates on the podium after the F1 2025 British Grand Prix | Sauber

Gabriel Bortoleto

The 2024 F2 champion and part of Fernando Alonso’s management circle joined as rookie in 2025. He’s shown remarkable maturity, earning praise as “the best rookie of his generation” with multiple points finishes.

Driver Profile
Gabriel Bortoleto ahead of the F1 2025 Austrian Grand Prix | Sauber

Sauber F1 Team history

Sauber began as a Swiss sports car operation in the 1970s and entered F1 in 1993. Early years were marked by solid engineering and nurturing talent like Frentzen and a young Räikkönen. 

BMW took over in 2006, leading to the team’s only F1 win at the 2008 Canadian GP with Robert Kubica. BMW departed in 2009, and Sauber returned to independent ownership. 

In 2018, Sauber partnered with Alfa Romeo, rebranding and scoring occasional podiums. By 2024, the sponsorship ended, and Sauber raced as Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber ahead of its full Audi takeover in 2026.

F1 Car – Sauber C45

  • Chassis: Sauber C45 (Kick Sauber C45)

  • Power unit: Ferrari 066/12 hybrid V6

  • Concept focus: Aerodynamic refinement, updated sidepods, improved floor for better airflow and balance.

  • Upgrade path: Multiple mid-season packages improved pace and race performance, including a podium in Britain

Gabriel Bortoleto on track during practice for the F1 2025 Austrian Grand Prix | Sauber

Records and achievements

  • Constructors’ Championships: 0
  • Drivers’ Championships: 0
  • Grand Prix wins: 1 (2008 Canadian GP as BMW Sauber)
  • Podiums: 27 (inclusive of BMW Sauber era)
  • Pole positions: 1
  • Fastest laps: 7

Latest Sauber F1 News

FAQ – Sauber F1 Team

Who drives for Sauber in 2025?

Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto.

Where is Sauber based?

Hinwil, Switzerland (team), with a UK tech center in Bicester.

What is the 2025 Sauber car?

Sauber C45.

Has Sauber ever won an F1 race?

Yes—once, at the 2008 Canadian GP as BMW Sauber.

What’s next for the team?

In 2026, Sauber becomes Audi’s works team with upgraded infrastructure and identity.