Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto to take part in Abu Dhabi Post-Season Test

KICK Sauber F1 Team will open the next chapter of its history as the 2025 driver line-up of Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto takes part in the Formula One post-season test in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, December 10.

The participation in Formula One’s customary appendix to the season – an occasion for drivers to make their first forays with their new teams – marks an important milestone for both racers as they prepare to join the Hinwil squad in 2025. Nico, who joins from Haas with a wealth of experience in Formula One, as well as the 2015 Le Mans winners’ trophy under his belt, will focus on evaluating the team’s late-season developments, providing valuable feedback, and familiarising himself with the engineers and the crew. Gabriel, the reigning FIA Formula 3 champion and current leader of this year’s FIA Formula 2 championship, will have the opportunity to drive one of the team’s Formula One cars for the first time, gaining crucial experience as he transitions to his role as a race driver with the team.

The day-long test will see both drivers on track, with Nico taking part in the Pirelli tyre test and Gabriel participating in the Young Driver Test. The team will effectively use this session as the unofficial start of the 2025 campaign, ahead of the winter break, laying the groundwork for the run-up to the new season.

Mattia Binotto, COO and CTO of KICK Sauber F1 Team: “This is an important first step for both Nico and Gabriel as they integrate into the team. For Nico, this is a chance to get a feel for the car and begin the close collaboration with our engineers ahead of what promises to be a very busy 2025 season. For Gabriel, it’s a fantastic opportunity to gain experience, familiarise himself with Formula One machinery with its complex procedures, and take the first steps in his development at the highest level of motorsport. We’re looking forward to seeing both in action and starting our journey together.”