Sauber targets gains as F1 returns to Bahrain

With pre-season testing held in Bahrain less than two months ago, the Hinwil-based outfit returns to familiar surroundings. However, this time the conditions will be warmer and more representative of true race demands, particularly when it comes to tyre management and performance across longer stints.

Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley believes the team is well placed to evaluate its development trajectory since the start of the season: “With Japan behind us, we now head to Bahrain for the second leg of this triple header.

"As pre-season testing also took place in Bahrain, we have some solid data to help benchmark the car development updates introduced on the car over the last few events. Our focus for the race weekend is to build on the momentum from Suzuka across every area of the team and ensure we’re in a strong position to respond to any opportunities that arise during the race," added Wheatley.

Nico Hulkenberg, who continues to lead the team’s development efforts in his return to Sauber, underlined the challenge posed by Bahrain’s demanding layout:

“Bahrain is completely different to Suzuka, as the track layout places maximum demands on braking and traction. We've been there already in February, learned a lot since then and developed the car in some areas.

“However, we know there is still some work to do in terms of overall performance, and it will be all about working through each session, and focusing on the areas where we can improve. The goal is to build on that, making sure we maximise our learnings to be in a favourable position for the race.”

Rookie Gabriel Bortoleto arrives in Bahrain with growing confidence, having gained valuable race mileage across three unfamiliar circuits. The Brazilian is optimistic the track knowledge he brings to Sakhir can translate into meaningful progress.

“I’m looking forward to being back in Bahrain," Bortoleto said in the Haas preview. "This will be another opportunity to build on what I have learned so far and continue improving. I have also been back to the factory at the beginning of the week, to further prepare for the race ahead; on top of this, I know this track fairly well compared to Melbourne, Shanghai, and Suzuka.

“The conditions here can often pose an added challenge, with the track developing significantly over the weekend and wind playing a big role, but I am prepared for anything this weekend might throw our way. Every session will be a chance to push harder, adapt, and make progress.”

Sauber will be aiming to convert preparation into performance as the back of the midfield battle tightens heading into the final leg of the triple-header.