Sauber are sponsored by Stake
Sauber have signed former Red Bull and McLaren engineer Stefano Sordo in the newly created position of Performance Director.
Building up to Audi’s official takeover in 2026, Sauber have made several key signings in the last two years.
Sauber have signed Stefano Sordo as their Performance Director
Two notable individuals who recently made significant moves to Sauber are Andrea Seidl, who transitioned from McLaren to become the CEO of Sauber, and James Key, who also joined Sauber last September after his tenure at McLaren.
After serving as the technical director for RLL Racing in IndyCar, Sordo has now become the newest addition to the team.
With a background at McLaren and Red Bull, he brings extensive expertise in Formula 1 performance. He reports directly to Key.
While he was at Red Bull, he played a significant role in the team’s consecutive championship wins from 2010 to 2013. Later, during his time at McLaren, he also secured a race victory to his accomplishments.
Seidl stated that the appointment of Stefano is a crucial milestone in the progression of our technical department’s structure.
“Stefano possesses a deep understanding of the requirements for a successful team, thanks to his extensive experience. Having fulfilled various roles in the past, he is well-equipped to thoroughly assess our technical operations’ strengths and weaknesses, and effectively address any necessary improvements.”
With our robust technical team in Hinwil, Stefano’s appointment will enable us to effectively utilize their skills and transform them into exceptional performance. This is of utmost importance as we navigate through this critical phase for our team, with the Audi F1 works team getting prepared for its inaugural entry.
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Sordo expressed his delight in joining Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber and taking on a significant role that will directly contribute to unleashing the existing potential within the company, propelling it to new levels of success.
“The team stands at a pivotal moment in its history, as the Audi adventure is about to commence, and I eagerly anticipate embracing the forthcoming challenge.”
“I am filled with enthusiasm for the possibilities that lie ahead. The team has set ambitious goals for themselves, but I am reassured by the evident confidence displayed by every individual in this organization.”
Sauber has officially announced Nico Hulkenberg as one of their two drivers for the upcoming season, meaning Sordo will be partnering with him. The German racer has secured a multi-year contract with the team.
There is still uncertainty surrounding his team-mate as speculations indicate that Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu might not make it, while Carlos Sainz and Esteban Ocon are said to be potential contenders.
“There is no rush for the team to decide,” stated Alessandro Alunni Bravi, emphasizing the absence of a deadline.
“We have made a proactive move in the market by securing Nico Hulkenberg, a highly valuable addition to our team who aligns perfectly with Audi’s long-term goals in F1. With this accomplished, we now have ample time to carefully evaluate the finest available options.”
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