Alfa Romeo-Sauber F1 Partnership Concludes
The collaboration between Alfa Romeo and Sauber Motorsport in Formula 1, which marked Alfa Romeo's return to top-tier motorsport in 2018 after over three decades, concludes at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This six-year alliance brought together two iconic names in Formula 1 history. The partnership, driven by the late Sergio Marchionne, was a fusion of strategic, commercial, and technological interests.
During these years, Alfa Romeo fielded a roster of talented drivers, including Charles Leclerc, Marcus Ericsson, Antonio Giovinazzi, Kimi Räikkönen, Zhou Guanyu, and Valtteri Bottas. The team received unwavering support from Sauber Motorsport, led by figures like Finn Rausing, Fred Vasseur, Alunni Bravi, and Andreas Seidl.
Acknowledgement is also due to Ferrari for power unit supply and partners like Adler, Ferrari Trento, Marelli, Pirelli, Sabelt, and Web Eyewear. The FIA, led by Mohammed Ben Sulayem and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, has also been instrumental in the sport's success. The Alfa Romeo fans, journalists, and communication professionals are appreciated for their passion and dedication.
Jean-Philippe Imparato, CEO of Alfa Romeo, reflects on the journey as a valuable international showcase and a profound experience that bolstered Alfa Romeo's global market presence and strategic marketing. He assures fans that Alfa Romeo, with competition in its DNA, will return to racing when the time is right.
In Abu Dhabi, the C43 car celebrates this partnership with a special livery, including the phrase "Alfa Romeo nei nostri cuori," paying tribute to the Sauber team. Cristiano Fiorio, Alfa Romeo Strategic Projects, highlights the innovation, creativity, and team spirit fostered during this partnership. He notes the synergy in projects like the GIULIA GTA and GTAm, benefiting from Sauber's expertise in motorsport.
Alfa Romeo's legacy in motorsport is rich, having been a prominent figure in the pre-war Grand Prix and the early years of Formula 1, with significant contributions as both a manufacturer and an engine supplier. The brand's history in the sport dates back to the 1950s, with notable achievements, including the first Drivers' World Championship wins with Nino Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio. Their involvement continued through various roles until their withdrawal in 1985, only to return with vigour in 2018.
