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F1: Sauber drivers struggling to get tires into working range

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Khatir Soltani
The new Ferrari-powered Sauber C33completed 193 laps of the Jerez circuit last week and team principal Monisha Kaltenborn said the Swiss team is quite happy with the first outing of the turbo hybrid car.

“We are satisfied with the first test. Our car was ready just in time. We wanted to see if the mechanical components and all the systems were working. The cars are very complex this year because of the new power unit, but, as a matter of fact, we have reached a good level already,” Kaltenborn said in a team press release.

Adrian Sutil, Sauber C33-Ferrari
Adrian Sutil, Sauber C33-Ferrari (Photo: WRI2)

She confirmed that the lap times are almost meaningless because every team ran a different programme, including different fuel loads. She also confirmed that the loss of downforce due to the new technical regulations was causing some problems with the Pirelli tires.

“The tires were another important factor to consider. Both our drivers struggled to get temperature into the tires. And it certainly didn’t help them that we only had a provisional aero package with limited downforce on the car,” she said.

“However, this didn’t come as a surprise to us. We know what to expect. It was our top priority to be ready from the first day of testing, so to be able to drive and collect as much data as possible,” Kaltenborn added.

“Fundamentally, the C33 has a very extensive aero package. We plan to have most of the parts on the car for the first test in Bahrain. This includes new front and rear wings, side pod deflectors, as well as several other small elements on the car. A few other parts will follow for the second test in Bahrain,” she concluded.


Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada