Sauber F1 Team to test something new in Shanghai

Nico Hulkenberg gave Sauber the first points of the season at the Malaysian Grand Prix F1 Team that needed to reassure itself after a difficult race in Australia. The three-week break comes at the right time for the teams who can work on the flaws in their cars before the next meeting in China which takes place on April 14. “The Shanghai circuit offers a good mix of low, medium and high speed corners,” points out chief track engineer Tom McCullough. “The track has some technical sections that require a well-balanced car and precision driving. The smooth, fresh surface has a big impact on tire performance, particularly at the start of the weekend when the track cleans up. Pirelli will bring a new pair of tires this season with soft and medium compounds. We analyzed the data collected in Malaysia and found interesting development directions for the car. We will test several elements in Shanghai. After scoring our first points of the season in Malaysia, we want to collect new ones as soon as possible. »

The challenge will still be difficult for Sauber F1 Team, especially with Esteban Gutiérrez who will discover the track next weekend. “I don’t know the circuit at the moment and it will be an interesting new challenge to learn the track and build my confidence over the sessions,” comments the Mexican. “I heard it was a very complex circuit with several fast corners and also very technical. Learning a circuit depends entirely on the approach. You can learn a lot with the video, the advice of your engineer, and above all with the confidence you place in the car. Compared to the first race in Melbourne, I now know the car and I can concentrate on my learning. My goal is to progress. » His teammate Nico Hülkenberg will compete in his 3rd Chinese Grand Prix, but the former Force India driver was unable to showcase himself on the Shanghai circuit with only two 15th places. “The Shanghai circuit is not particularly one of my favorite circuits, but it is nevertheless demanding, particularly during the first corners and the curves which precede the straight. My rear wing was damaged in Malaysia, which caused a loss of aerodynamic downforce. I now have better sensations compared to my first race with the C32. My goal is to collect other points like in Malaysia. »