After being rooted to the back of the grid last year, the Swiss team hopes that its new C37 single-seater, which is equipped with the latest 2018-specification Ferrari engine rather than the older unit it was forced to use last year, as well as its rounded driver line-up, comprising of Marcus Ericsson, who brings plenty of experience of F1, and Charles Leclerc, a promising rookie, can combine and help Sauber move forward.

The team however showed few signs of much improvement in pace during the two official pre-season tests in Barcelona earlier this month and Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur has this week in the media played down the chance of them scoring points this year. Sauber rather sees this as a new project and new direction and will be looking to show signs of positive progress as the season unfolds.

It all kicks off this weekend at the Albert Park track in Melbourne and as a temporary circuit the surface will be improving throughout the weekend, weather permitting. Its abrasiveness is quite moderate so Pirelli has allocated the soft, supersoft and ultrasoft compounds for the race weekend.

When it comes to set-up for the new Sauber C37, braking stability and traction from low speed, as well as sharp changes of direction, will all be important factors.

Marcus Ericsson: “We are ready and looking forward to the first Grand Prix. It is always exciting to kick off the season in such a fantastic location, and on a track that is fun to drive. The circuit in Albert Park is a mix between a street track and a regular circuit, which is a good challenge for us drivers. The weather is usually quite unpredictable there, so that also spices things up for the weekend. I am looking forward to seeing our new car on track for the full race weekend for the first time. Winter testing was useful in terms of gaining a general understanding of the car’s behaviour and potential. Now, we are moving to the next step when we will start to understand where we are in relation to our competitors. I look forward to it all and can’t wait to be back on track in Albert Park.”

Charles Leclerc: “I am really looking forward to being in Melbourne. The first race of a season is always exciting for a driver, but this being the first Formula 1 Grand Prix of my career makes the occasion even more special. Melbourne is a lovely city that I discovered when I came to watch the Australian GP last year. Driving on the circuit in Albert Park will be a new experience for me, and I look forward to the challenge. With it being the opening race of the season, you can really feel the excitement and energy there. Over the past weeks, I have got to know the team well, learned all of the relevant procedures, and was able to get a first impression of the new C37 during winter testing. I am eager to now spend a full race weekend in the car and work with the team to understand how we can maximize our potential. I can’t wait to be on track for my first Grand Prix as a Formula 1 driver.”

Frédéric Vasseur, Team Principal: “We are starting off the new season with quite a few changes. First of all, we are returning to the paddocks with an iconic Title Partner – Alfa Romeo. Our new car, the C37, is equipped with the 2018 Ferrari engine. Recent winter tests in Barcelona have given us a first understanding of its potential, and we will continue developing it throughout the year. We also have a new driver duo. Marcus (Ericsson) has a lot of experience and has become a key part of the team over the past three years. Charles (Leclerc) is joining us for his debut season in Formula 1. It is always exciting to see a rookie experience his debut in the sport. This Australian GP will be a special one of all of us, and I look forward to starting off the 2018 season on a positive note.”

Photos: Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team (Pre Season Testing 2018)