Nico Hülkenberg and Sauber ‘realistic’ about 2025 F1 season

A new Formula 1 season brings a blank slate to all ten teams.

But at Sauber, the focus is on progress, and the long-term plan.

2025 sees Sauber with a completely new driver lineup, as veteran Nico Hülkenberg joins from Haas, paired with rookie and last season’s F2 Drivers’ Champion Gabriel Bortoleto. 2025 is also the final season before Sauber becomes the Audi works operation, just in time for the new set of technical regulations go into effect in 2026.

Ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix both Hülkenberg and Bortoleto, as well as Mattia Binotto, were clear-eyed about what they face in 2025.

“The start of a new season is always a crucial moment, marking the beginning of a journey lasting twenty-four races. We have worked hard during the winter period, and we are now ready to tackle the challenges ahead,” said Binotto in the team’s preview of the Australian Grand Prix. “It’s going to be a long, demanding season, and we know that development will play a key role as the year progresses, even as preparations for the 2026 campaign ramp up. Our focus will be on making

consistent improvements, maximising every opportunity. We are committed to use the 2025 season for building a stronger [foundation] to succeed in our long-term goals and push forward all season long.”

Binotto, who joined as Sauber’s Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technical Officer last summer, enters his first full season at the helm.

“It’s great to be back in Melbourne – the atmosphere and the vibes around the Albert Park are unique. It’s always special to get a new season underway, especially in new [colors],” said Hülkenberg. “We are ready to take on the challenge ahead. Our focus will be on progressing and consistently improving as a team in all necessary aspects. While we are realistic about the steps ahead and the challenges we will be facing, we are confident in the progress we can make, and I am looking forward now to get the season going!”

“I’m incredibly excited for my Formula One debut – it’s a moment I’ve been working towards for a long time, and now it’s finally here. The team has been fantastic with me throughout pre-season, and I feel like we have made solid progress in understanding the car and how we can work together,” added the rookie Bortoleto.

“Now, I’m focused on making the most of every session. There’s a lot to learn, but I’m ready to take on the challenge. Each race is an opportunity to improve, and I’m looking forward to giving it my all and pushing both myself and the team to keepgetting better throughout the season.”

Sauber finished tenth in the Constructors’ Championship a season ago, banking just four points on the year thanks to an eighth-place finish from Zhou Guanyu in the Qatar Grand Prix.