Peter Sauber, a name synonymous with motorsports, has candidly shared the highlights of his remarkable journey as he steps away from the Formula 1 scene. After more than five decades in the racing world, the legendary founder of Sauber F1 reflected on the pinnacle moments that defined his career just as Audi gears up to take the reins in the sport next season.
It all began in 1970 when Sauber launched his motorsports venture, crafting the ‘C1’—a nod to his wife, Christiane—that boasted a modest 1-litre Ford Cosworth engine. His debut in competitive racing saw him enter the Swiss Hill Climb Championship, setting the stage for an illustrious career. Fast forward 23 years, and Sauber made a monumental entry into Formula 1 with the C12 chassis, driven by Karl Wendlinger and JJ Lehto. The duo made an impressive mark, scoring points in six of the 16 races of the 1993 season.
However, it is the years 2001, 2008, and 2012 that stand out in Sauber’s memory. In 2001, his team achieved an astounding fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship, a feat powered by rookie drivers Nick Heidfeld and Kimi Raikkonen. This accomplishment not only defied expectations but also highlighted the potential of the team in its formative years. Sauber recalled the achievement with pride, noting, “Of course, I was surprised. But Kimi was an excellent driver that season. Nick was the better driver, but this combination was very good, and, of course, the car was okay. You need a good car.”
The 2008 season brought a double victory that is etched in the annals of racing history, as Sauber partnered with BMW to see Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld clinch a remarkable one-two finish at the Canadian Grand Prix. “On one side, it’s the double victory in Montreal, together with BMW – or BMW with us! Because it’s important to win races,” he expressed, emphasizing the significance of triumphs in his career.
In 2012, Sauber took a significant step back from the team he had led for two decades, marking the end of an era. That season was particularly rewarding, yielding four podium finishes, including a memorable performance at Monza, where they triumphed over Ferrari. Despite his departure, the Sauber name will continue to resonate as the team retains its headquarters in Switzerland while Audi prepares to usher in a new chapter.
Sauber attended the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix earlier this month, where he witnessed the final race for his organization, which had recently partnered with Stake. The occasion was undoubtedly special, though he admitted to feeling a sense of detachment, having anticipated this moment for over a year. “I was not too emotional,” he noted, reflecting on the bittersweet nature of the farewell.
When asked about the drivers he enjoyed working with most, Sauber tactfully sidestepped offering a favorite. “I cannot pick one. Everybody was special. Maybe not special good, but special,” he said, hinting at the unique experiences each driver brought to his storied career.
As Peter Sauber bows out, the motorsport world stands at a crossroads, ready to embrace the new era ushered in by Audi while cherishing the legacy left behind by a true pioneer in Formula 1.
