Bahrain I, Day 1: Sauber test report

The Sauber F1 Team enjoyed a solid first day of testing in Bahrain. With the full aero package on the car the team was able to run through the test programme as planned in the morning, including aero tests and rear wing comparisons. Adrian Sutil completed a total of 82 laps.

Giampaolo Dall’Ara, Head of Track Engineering :

“Today went quite well. We scheduled the shorter runs in the morning. This included some aero tests, as well as rear wing comparisons. The wind wasn’t ideal, but we got through the programme. The long runs in the afternoon didn’t quite go to plan, but despite this we were still able to get in some decent mileage. The issues that gave us a lot of downtime in Jerez were largely sorted, with some final work to be done, which is positive.”

Adrian Sutil :

“It was a productive day and the conditions for testing in Bahrain are good. The temperature is better and more consistent than in Europe right now. We did 82 laps today and were able to put a lot of mileage on the engine. The car is getting better, but there is still a lot to do. We still have issues with the brakes and the engine drivability, but we were able to progress, which is good. It was good to have a better day today than any we had in Jerez and I am more confident now. Also in terms of aerodynamics, the car was in a much better shape with much more grip and better driveability.”

For tomorrow and Thursday Esteban Gutiérrez will take over the wheel of the Sauber C33-Ferrari. Adrian Sutil will take over again on Saturday.