Sauber’s Collaborative Driver Pairing Fuels Resurgence as Audi Transition Approaches
As Sauber approaches a pivotal transition to Audi in 2026, team principal Jonathan Wheatley has praised the collaborative synergy between drivers Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg. Their partnership has yielded 45 points over the past six races, marking a significant improvement for the team.
Wheatley, drawing on his extensive experience in Formula 1, called this pairing the most cooperative he has encountered. "It’s incredibly important… the closest, most collaborative driver pairing I think I can remember," Wheatley stated. He emphasized Bortoleto’s exceptional work ethic and potential, highlighting the rookie’s recent sixth-place finish in Hungary, which has elevated his points total to 14 over the last four races.
Despite Bortoleto’s relative inexperience—he has not completed extensive testing in F1 cars—Wheatley notes the Brazilian’s rapid adaptation and growth. "He hasn’t done 10,000 kilometers in the Formula 1 car… he’s been able to deliver brilliantly," Wheatley said, reinforcing the significance of Bortoleto’s performances on familiar circuits.
Wheatley also acknowledged Hulkenberg’s instrumental role, despite a lack of points finishes. "Nico did a tremendous job… we’re very pleased with both of our drivers," he asserted, underscoring the team’s unified approach as they prepare for their next chapter under Audi.
