Kick Sauber

History

Founded by Peter Sauber in 1993, the team based in Hinwil, Switzerland, has carved out a unique legacy in Formula 1. Initially entering with Ilmor engines, Sauber quickly forged strong ties with major manufacturers, notably Mercedes, and later a long-standing relationship with Ferrari, who supplied their power units for many years. A significant chapter in the team's history was the BMW Sauber era from 2006 to 2009, which saw the outfit achieve its sole Grand Prix victory at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix with Robert Kubica. Following BMW's withdrawal, the team reverted to independent status, often operating on more modest budgets but consistently demonstrating resilience and a knack for solid engineering.

Over the years, the team has navigated various ownership changes and naming rights deals, from Sauber F1 Team to Alfa Romeo Racing, and currently as Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber. Despite these shifts, the core identity and the Hinwil base have remained constant, fostering a culture of technical development and driver nurturing. The current chapter is arguably its most transformative, as it prepares for a full integration with Audi, becoming the German manufacturer's factory team from the 2026 season onwards.

Driving DNA

Sauber has long been recognized as a formidable talent incubator, providing a crucial stepping stone for numerous drivers who went on to achieve significant success in Formula 1. Icons like Kimi Räikkönen and Felipe Massa began their F1 careers at Hinwil, as did future Grand Prix winners such as Robert Kubica. More recently, the team played a vital role in the early F1 development of Charles Leclerc. This tradition underscores a driving DNA focused on identifying raw talent and providing a stable, if often challenging, environment for growth. The team's cars, while not always front-runners, have consistently been reliable and well-engineered, allowing drivers to demonstrate their capabilities and often punch above the team's financial weight. In the current era, drivers like Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu continue to represent the team's commitment to consistent performance and development.

The 2026 lineup

The forthcoming 2026 season marks a new era for the Hinwil squad as it fully transforms into the Audi works team. The announced driver lineup for this pivotal year features the experienced Nico Hülkenberg, whose consistent performance and technical feedback will be invaluable in developing the new Audi challenger. Joining him will be Gabriel Bortoleto, the reigning Formula 2 champion, making his highly anticipated F1 debut. This blend of veteran experience and youthful exuberance signals Audi's long-term vision, aiming for both immediate stability and future potential. Overseeing this ambitious project from 2026 will be Mattia Binotto, who has been announced as the Team Principal, bringing a wealth of technical and leadership experience from his previous roles in Formula 1.

What's at stake

The transition to a full works team with Audi from 2026 represents an unprecedented opportunity and a significant challenge. The team will not only be developing a new chassis but also integrating Audi's bespoke power unit, a monumental task requiring seamless collaboration and substantial investment. The performance during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, operating with Ferrari power units, serves as critical preparation, allowing the team to refine its operational structures and build momentum. For Mattia Binotto, Hülkenberg, and Bortoleto, the stakes are incredibly high. They will be tasked with laying the foundation for Audi's F1 success, navigating the complexities of new regulations, and establishing the brand as a competitive force in the sport. The world will be watching to see if this historic partnership can deliver on its considerable promise.