2024 Abu Dhabi Post-Season Test

KICK Sauber F1 Team officially concluded the 2024 season with a positive day of testing at the Yas Marina Circuit. The day marked an important milestone for the team, as 2025 drivers, Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, took to the track; it was a return to the team for Nico, who raced for the Hinwil squad in 2013, while Gabriel put his first kilometres as a Formula One driver under his belt.

Both drivers were facing different approaches. Nico’s programme mainly focused on the Pirelli tyre test, gathering crucial data for the tyre supplier’s approach of the upcoming season., Gabriel made use of the day to get familiar with Formula One machinery, and the team’s processes, quickly adapting and laying a strong foundation for his rookie season next year.

Both drivers completed their respective programmes smoothly, providing valuable insights and data. The team now heads into the off-season with a wealth of information to analyse, ahead of returning on track in 2025.

Nico Hulkenberg (car number 27):
KICK Sauber F1 Team C44 (Chassis 02/Ferrari)
Laps: 113 – 596,753km
Fastest Lap: 1:23.856 – P4

“The first day together is now behind us and I think today has been a productive and positive start – we were able to take care of the basics and begin working together as a team. It was generally very useful to get a first impression of the car. I’m looking forward to building on this momentum in the new year and really diving into the work ahead of us. I would like to thank everyone for the warm welcome and I can‘t wait to get back to this in 2025.”

Gabriel Bortoleto (car number 98):
KICK Sauber F1 Team C44 (Chassis 04/Ferrari)
Laps: 130 – 686,530km
Fastest Lap: 1:24.738 – P18

“Today marked my first day as a Formula One driver – it’s an amazing feeling. I think overall we had a positive testing session – I put my focus on adapting to the car, learning as much as possible, getting used to the engineers, to the mechanics, everyone in the team. It’s safe to say that we have seen a positive first day in my new role. Formula One cars are so much quicker, it’s definitely very different from Formula 2 obviously, but I’m looking forward to this new chapter. I am even more proud to be part of this team now and excited to see what we can achieve together next year.”