Sauber Sees Silver Lining Despite Pointless Streak: Optimism Amid Struggles at Italian Grand Prix

Sauber sees encouraging signals despite Valtteri Bottas not scoring yet

Sauber's leader remains hopeful, citing grounds for a positive outlook

Sauber is confident that they've bridged the difference with their closest competitors, even though they haven't yet secured any points at the F1 Italian Grand Prix.

Valtteri Bottas crossed the finish line in 16th place at the Monza Grand Prix, securing a position two spots ahead of his team member Guany

Bottas, Zhou, and Logan Sargeant (who is no longer with Williams) stand as the sole Formula 1 racers in 2024 who have yet to score any points, with Sauber being the only team in the same situation.

Sauber's pair started from the rear positions, leading to Bottas being equipped with a durable tyre for an extended initial run, although the team's strategy didn't yield significant results.

Nonetheless, team spokesperson Alessandro Alunni Bravi maintains a certain level of hope.

"He pointed out that, despite the final standings not showing a significant improvement over past races, there were encouraging indicators in the team's performance."

Both drivers successfully maintained their tyres, both hard and medium, enabling us to execute the race strategy we had devised prior to the event, keeping tyre wear in check.

Certainly, this hasn't yet reached the level needed to compete effectively for points due to our overall speed deficit. However, the introduction of a low-drag configuration for Monza, coupled with adjustments made to the setup for the qualifying rounds, enhanced the vehicle's stability. This provided Valtteri and Zhou with an opportunity to contend.

"While we have a considerable distance to cover before we're truly competing for points, it's crucial to recognize that the distance separating us from our closest rivals has diminished. This is an encouraging indication that deserves to be highlighted."

Bottas commented on the race, stating, "The race went smoothly and without much incident for us; we opted for a single pit stop strategy, beginning on the hard tires, in an attempt to stand out and possibly benefit from a Safety Car situation if it arose.

"Regrettably, our efforts did not yield the desired results, but I believe it was worthwhile to attempt it."

Reflecting on the progression of the race, I wouldn't change a thing: we managed to climb a few spots up the leaderboard, securing the 16th position purely based on our performance, but honestly, that was the best outcome we could achieve.

"Our advancement in speed hasn't been significant. Although we kicked off the weekend on a high note, maintaining that initial thrust or enhancing it proved challenging. Nevertheless, it was an improvement over our performance in Zandvoort. We recognize the need for considerable effort to progress further, and that's our focus as we prepare for the upcoming consecutive races in Baku and Singapore."

Zhou stated: "Today, our speed wasn't sufficient for a competitive edge near the scoring positions, particularly in a race that proceeded without any disruptions or major surprises."

"Our speed has definitely enhanced since last weekend's race in Zandvoort, yet we find ourselves lagging in performance when measured against our immediate rivals."

Over the weekend, there was a noticeable enhancement in our pace for single laps. However, it's evident that identifying the optimal performance zone for the car and ensuring a perfect weekend is crucial to achieving the best outcome.

"Instead of counting on chance, we as a team are dedicated to diligently pushing forward and striving to uncover the vital fractions of a second that will move us nearer to the top ten."

Sauber is set to progress into its Audi phase in the coming year, although it will retain its existing appearance for now.

Haas has secured Nico Hulkenberg for their 2025 lineup, leaving Bottas and Zhou competing to stay in Formula 1.

Sauber and Red Bull are the only teams with open driver slots for the upcoming season.

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