Nico Hulkenberg has lauded the immediate positive impact made by Jonathan Wheatley, Sauber’s recently appointed team principal, who joined the team after nearly two decades at Red Bull in a key sporting role. Following his first career podium at the British Grand Prix, Hulkenberg emphasized the practical changes Wheatley has introduced, which he described as “shortcuts to performance” that are already driving Sauber’s improvement.
As Sauber prepares for its transition to Audi ownership next year, Hulkenberg noted how Wheatley’s focused adjustments are helping the team rise in the Formula 1 constructors‘ standings. The German driver explained that Wheatley quickly identified opportunities to optimize various areas within the team’s structure, facilitating a more efficient and streamlined race operation.
Small Adjustments Make a Significant Difference at Sauber
Under Wheatley’s leadership, Sauber has implemented numerous minor but meaningful changes that Hulkenberg believes collectively enhance the team’s competitiveness. By refining the organization and operations both at the circuit and the factory, these tweaks have established a foundation for future progress.
And back at the factory, there’s a lot more work to do as we grow, to put the pieces into position and make sure they work productively in the future.
—Jonathan Wheatley, Team Principal
Sauber’s Climbs in the Championship Reflect Newfound Momentum
This season, Sauber stands sixth in the constructors‘ championship, matching their best position since 2012, excluding periods under Alfa Romeo branding. The landmark podium achieved at Silverstone ended a long drought for the team, recalling a similar podium finish by Kamui Kobayashi at the Japanese Grand Prix in the same year.
Wheatley’s influence was particularly evident during the challenging wet conditions of the British Grand Prix, where Hulkenberg moved swiftly from the back of the grid to secure an unexpected third place, trailing only McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Hulkenberg called it
the most overdue podium in F1 history.
Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley on Building Confidence and Momentum
Having assumed control of Sauber in April, Wheatley’s experience brings a fresh winning mindset to the Hinwil-based team. After their Silverstone success, Wheatley highlighted the importance of belief and momentum within the team environment.
I’ve spoken about how important momentum is in a team, and for me, what I take from this result is that people start believing in us,
Wheatley said.
I can say the words, I can say we’re gaining momentum, I can say we’re putting performance on the car, I can say all the hard work Mattia [Binotto] put in before I got here is coming to light, but it is all true.
We’ve got a long journey to where we need to be as a team, and it is a great stepping stone, but I am trying to keep my feet on the ground.
Looking Ahead: Sauber’s Ambitions for Continued Growth
Buoyed by recent upgrades debuting in Barcelona and the encouragement of their British Grand Prix results, Sauber approaches the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix with renewed optimism. As the team continues to integrate Wheatley’s effective “shortcuts to performance,” Sauber aims to build on this momentum to enhance its competitiveness before becoming Audi’s works team next season.