The single-seaters will sport
the distinctive colours and logo of Alfa Romeo, the team’s Title Sponsor, and
will be equipped with 2018 Ferrari power units. The scope of the agreement
includes strategic, commercial and technological cooperation in all applicable
areas of development, including access to engineering know-how and the
expertise of Alfa Romeo technical staff. This partnership will provide
additional opportunities for the two organisations in both Formula 1 and the
automotive sector in general. The official name will be Alfa Romeo Sauber F1
Team.
The return of Alfa Romeo, one
of the major protagonists in Formula 1 history, is expected to contribute significantly
to the appeal and future development of the sport. Alfa Romeo brings with it
technological know-how and a large and passionate fan base, while participation
in the championship also offers benefits for the brand in areas such as
technology transfer and road safety.
Alfa Romeo is known around the
world for its racing heritage and technological excellence. The undisputed
champion of the pre-war Grand Prix (in 1925, the GP Tipo 2 dominated the first
World Championship), Alfa Romeo participated in Formula 1 from 1950 to 1988,
both as a constructor and engine supplier. Immediately upon its debut, Alfa
Romeo won the first two drivers’ world championships, in 1950 and 1951, with
drivers Nino Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio. From 1961 to 1979, Alfa Romeo
participated as engine supplier to several F1 teams. Following its return as a
constructor in 1979, Alfa Romeo achieved its best result in 1983, taking sixth
place in the constructors’ championship. More than 30 years after withdrawing
as a competitor from Formula 1 (1985), the brand is returning with the clear
intention to make its mark.
Sergio Marchionne, CEO of FCA,
said: “This agreement with the Sauber F1 Team is a significant step in the
reshaping of the Alfa Romeo brand, which will return to Formula 1 after an
absence of more than 30 years. A storied marque that has helped make the
history of this sport, Alfa Romeo will join other major automakers that
participate in Formula 1. The brand itself will also benefit from the sharing
of technology and strategic know-how with a partner of the Sauber F1 Team’s
undisputed experience. The Alfa Romeo engineers and technicians, who have
already demonstrated their capabilities with the newly-launched models, Giulia
and Stelvio, will have the opportunity to make that experience available to the
Sauber F1 Team. At the same time, Alfa Romeo fans will once again have the
opportunity to support an automaker that is determined to begin writing an
exciting new chapter in its unique, legendary sporting history.”