Bahrain II, Day 1: Sauber test report

The final pre-season test started today. The Sauber F1 Team focused on qualifying and race preparation, as well as further development work for the Sauber C33-Ferrari. Adrian Sutil also had a chance to gain experience on the soft and super soft tyre compounds. He drove a total of 89 laps.

Giampaolo Dall’Ara, Head of Track Engineering:

“The number of laps we did today was decent and we were able to work through the programme. In the morning we did front wing and suspension work. Then we went on to do low fuel qualifying runs until early afternoon, before switching to high fuel race simulations. In addition, Adrian was able to evaluate the soft and super soft tyre compounds properly. The purpose of this last test is to get the race team up to speed for the first race with the new procedures and a complex new car. At the same time, the development of the car goes on, so this is a delicate balance you have to find.”

Adrian Sutil:

“We did a lot of mileage today. However, we have to work on our performance. We still had a few issues. Nevertheless, we were able to do qualifying runs and almost a complete race simulation. We have collected a lot of valuable information, and we know we still have to make further progress. Also I was able to gain experience on all dry tyre compounds. Generally they are all a bit harder than last year, but I have no concern about them as they should last well over the race distance.”

Tomorrow Esteban Gutiérrez will take over. Adrian Sutil will be driving the Sauber C33-Ferrari on Saturday, with Gutiérrez taking over again for the final day of pre-season testing on Sunday