2024 Stake F1 Team Unveils Sauber Launch
Alessandro Alunni Bravi, the representative of Sauber Team, has expressed the organization’s aim to enhance every aspect of their operations in the upcoming 2024 Formula 1 season. Bravi made these remarks during the unveiling of their new C44 2024 F1 contender, which signifies the beginning of the team’s two-year tenure under the rebranded name ‘Stake F1 Team’. This transitional period will bridge the gap between the concluded Alfa Romeo chapter in 2023 and their future era as the Audi works outfit from the regulation reset in 2026.
Having secured a ninth-place finish in the Constructors’ standings last year, Bravi acknowledged that setting specific targets for 2024 would be challenging. However, the overarching objective remains the improvement of their overall performance. Bravi stated, “It is difficult to quantify our goals with precise numbers, but our objectives are clear – to enhance the performance of our car and our overall package.” He further emphasized that this package encompasses various areas, such as the race team, track operations, pit stops, and strategy. The team is fully committed to progress in all departments and aims to take significant strides forward compared to their performance in 2023.
As the season unfolds, the team will assess their position along the way. Nonetheless, their primary target is to demonstrate improvement this year and deliver a superior performance than they did in the previous season.
With the guidance of CEO Andreas Seidl, Bravi is leading a reorganization effort as Sauber prepares for the upcoming complete takeover by Audi. In the middle of last season, Jan Monchaux left his position, and James Key, who had previously departed from McLaren, was appointed as the Technical Director.
Bravi explained that the next two years will involve a significant transformation process for the team, leading up to 2026 when they will become the Audi works team. However, their current focus is on the present and laying a strong foundation for the team on a daily basis. They are diligently working to improve all aspects of their organization under the leadership of Andreas Seidl.
The team has implemented an efficient structure both on and off the track. Xevi Pujolar serves as the Racing Director, Beat Zehnder as the Sporting Director, and Bravi himself plays a key role. Additionally, they have welcomed James Key as the new Technical Director at their Hinwil base. Bravi believes that this structure is well-suited for their growth process and the goals they aim to achieve.
While it is difficult to predict their position in the 2024 pecking order, considering Sauber’s behind-the-scenes planning for a successful long-term project with Audi, Bravi remains optimistic about the team’s short-term improvements. He believes that the team has the capability and opportunity to take a step forward. Last year, they finished ninth in the Constructors’ Championship, and their minimum target is to improve upon this position.
Bravi acknowledges that the season will be lengthy, and their focus should not only be on competitiveness at the beginning but also on continuous development throughout the year. They aim to deliver their best performance as a team in every race and seize all the opportunities that come their way. By remaining fully committed and dedicated to improving car performance, team operations, and their work processes, Bravi is confident that they will make progress. The extent of this progress will be revealed on the track.