2025 Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix Highlights

 

Kick Sauber F1 Team

 

The 2025 Formula 1 Saudi Arabian GP saw KICK Sauber face a demanding race weekend in Jeddah, but despite limited rewards, the team’s performance showed solid execution. The team initially split strategies, pitting Gabriel under the early Safety Car for a long 48-lap stint on hard tyres. Nico Hulkenberg made the most of the package with a well-executed pit stop, pushing through for a P15 finish.

Although the final positions, P15 for Nico and P18 for Gabriel, didn’t reflect the effort across the garage, the team left Saudi Arabia with valuable data to inform the development path of the C45. After a demanding triple-header between Japan, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, the team is recharging and focusing on returning stronger, setting sights on the Miami GP in just two weeks. 🌴🇺🇸

Nico Hulkenberg, Driver, Kick Sauber F1 Team

This was the most demanding race of the season so far. It was a clean and uneventful Sunday – no yellow flags after lap 1. We simply didn’t have the pace to challenge for points. The car’s balance wasn’t ideal, leading to increased tyre wear. We have work to do, but on the positive side, we had a clean race on this challenging street circuit and collected plenty of data for analysis. After such an intense start to the season, it’s good for the team to have a short break before we reset and return to Miami. 🏁

Gabriel Bortoleto, Driver, Kick Sauber F1 Team

This weekend has been a big learning experience – from preparation to managing setbacks and understanding the importance of every session. It’s been tough, but I’ve taken a lot from it. The race was frustrating; we switched to hard tyres during the Safety Car, but they were worn out by the final 15 laps. I was just focused on bringing the car home. Now it’s time to rest, recover, and reset. Thanks to the team, trackside and at the factory, for their unwavering support. I’ll take the lessons and head to Miami ready to fight and make the most of everything I’ve learned in my first five races. 💪

Jonathan Wheatley, Team Principal, Kick Sauber F1 Team

It was another long, hard weekend for the team. We started the race with drivers on different strategies. We pitted Gabriel under lap 1 Safety Car, and he drove a 48-lap stint on hard tyres, delivering exactly what we asked. Unfortunately, he couldn’t hold off Doohan at the end. For Nico, we got the most out of the package today with a P15 finish. We leave this weekend with no damage, an excellent pit stop for Nico, and valuable data to steer the development of the C45. After a gruelling triple-header, we will regroup, refocus, and get ourselves in the best shape for Miami in two weeks. 🔧📊