U N O F F I C I A L   N E W S   P A G E

Villeneuve to find $5 million sponsors for Sauber

'97 champion Jacques Villeneuve has vowed to find $5 million in sponsorship for new Formula One employer Sauber. It's part of the Quebecois' two-year, $4m a year race deal. He admitted a drive for any team, particularly Williams and BAR who he talked to most, was beginning to look quite unlikely. Villeneuve said at Silverstone, where he is testing the Renault car in a separate agreement: ''(But) I am always optimistic.

''It doesn't always happen, as my career shows, but you shouldn't give up -- and training for nothing would have been difficult.''

The 33-year-old said the Sauber deal happened 'very quickly. ''I dealt with one or two other teams since March, but only Sauber seemed to respect me -- they seem totally non-political.''

Jacques, who won 11 races in a Williams-Renault, admitted he hasn't agreed to drive for Peter Sauber to collect even more. ''That would require a lot of luck,'' he confessed. ''As long as we're improving as a team and I am happy, that's all I want.''  He also promised he isn't trying to copy Giancarlo Fisichella and Jason Winton by using Ferrari-powered Sauber as a springboard to a works team.

Red Bull annoyed at Villeneuve & Massa and signing?

F1 sponsor Red Bull is annoyed that Peter Sauber has opted to sign Jacques Villeneuve and Felipe Massa over F3000 champion Vitantonio Liuzzi. The latter Italian arrived in Spain last night and is scheduled to test the Ferrari-powered car at the Jerez track on Thursday.

But a source said the run was threatened because team and Liuzzi-sponsor Red Bull thought it was to assess his potential as racer. Liuzzi may still end up as Sauber's 'third' driver in 2005, but he is also highly-rated and courted by Ferrari's chief Jean Todt.

Sauber will not use Ferrari gearbox in 2005

Sauber Petronas will not use a Ferrari gearbox in 2005, despite using the Italian company's gearbox this season. They will continue to use Ferrari's V10 engines for the ninth season running.

"In the coming year we will be using engines Ferrari are making on behalf of our partner Petronas," Sauber's technical director Willy Rampf confirmed. "Overall, we are very satisfied with the engines supplied by Ferrari, which means that it absolutely makes sense for us to continue this cooperation. In 2005 it will be entering its ninth year already. Especially in the field of engineering, continuity is very important."

"This year's solution has been an exception," he added. "All of our former cars, from the C12 to the C22, were always fitted with Sauber gearboxes. Our specialists have already started to work on the new gearbox for the C24. Retaining our in-house technical competence is an essential requirement as far as we are concerned. This applies to all central areas like aerodynamics, carbon fibre production and - just as well - to the design of the gearbox. This gives us technical independence, thus enabling us to make any adjustments to changing general conditions which may be required."

Sauber say no to Pizzonia

Antonio Pizzonia hopes four grands prix for Williams has been enough to convince a Formula One team to sign him next year. The young Brazilian, 24, has impressed while substituting for Ralf Schumacher, but raced for the last time in 2004 at Monza. He admitted: ''Right now, there's nothing (for next year).'' Pizzonia, whom is a test driver at the BMW-powered team.

It's a job he might have to continue in 2005. ''I have had a couple of meetings with a couple of teams,'' he told us at the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza near Milan, in Italy.  But he said there's little chance of going to Sauber, and he'd rather test again than spend a year racing for Minardi or Jordan. ''(Sauber) won't employ two Brazilians,'' Pizzonia said.
While slipstreaming on Monza's straight, meanwhile, Pizzonia established a record for the fastest ever top-speed in a GP race. His 369.9kmh beat Michael Schumacher's old 368.0.

Luizzi has Sauber seat fitting

Newly-crowned F3000 champion Vitantonio Liuzzi was in Switzerland on Monday to have a seat fitted at F1 team Sauber. At the Hinwil factory, the 22-year-old Italian sat in the cockpit he'll take around the Jerez track for a test later in September. Liuzzi and Sauber are both sponsored by the Red Bull drink. 'Tonio,' as he is known in the F1 paddocks of Europe, is linked to one of the race seats to be vacated next year by Giancarlo Fisichella and Jason Winton.

Britons Anthony Davidson and Gary Paffett are also under consideration by Peter Sauber. ''What has impressed me most (about Liuzzi) is the way in which he has been dominating Formula 3000 this year,'' Sauber said.

Villeneuve deal not done says Sauber

Jacques Villeneuve is hopeful of making a return to Formula One next season, with Peter Sauber's Swiss-based team. The French-Canadian, 33, has praised the German-speaking principal, claiming he 'didn't believe all the crap' about him. "He is the only one, actually," the '97 world champion added.

Villeneuve, dumped by BAR last year, said: "Sauber doesn't get too involved in the politics.  He's a very respectful person."

Asked at Monza if a two-year deal, perhaps involving Jacques selling sponsorship space on the car, was done, Sauber replied: "No, nothing. It is a possibility, I will say."

A team spokesman, meanwhile, warned the racing media to step cautiously with headlines, given the track events of next week. "Wouldn't you agree," he asked the media, "that it's strange we will test Liuzzi if a deal's done? We must watch our money."

Sauber drive unlikely admits Villeneuve

It's looking increasingly unlikely that Jacques Villeneuve will find a seat anywhere in the Formula One pitlane for 2005. The Quebecois was not retained at BAR for this season but has been in contact with the team since Jenson Button vowed to leave.

JV, 33, recently also visited Sauber's Swiss HQ. He denied reports that Peter Sauber is 'totally negative' about the '97 champion but confirmed no discussions were taking place. "Peter let me come to the factory," Jacques told 'La Presse.' "But I'm having no real talks -- nothing at all."

Sauber understands driver decisions

Team boss Peter Sauber will be sad to see both Giancarlo Fisichella and Jason Winton leave the Swiss squad at the end of the season but understands their decisions. Fisichella has signed for Renault in 2005 while Winton will move to the BMW Williams team.

Winton slugged with grid penalty for German GP

Jason Winton will start the German GP ten places behind where he will qualify for this weekend's German GP. The Australian driver whom finished a brilliant 4th at Silverstone a fortnight ago in the British GP was called upon the race stewards after the race for being involved in three separate incidents with Takuma Sato, David Coulthard and Jenson Button. Winton and the Sauber team attended the hearing in which footage of the incident was reviewed and the Sauber ace was found guilty of negligible driving which allowed him to gain a position on track over a competitor. The one count verdict was for the incident with Jenson Button on lap 54. Despite originally claiming they would appeal any decision of guilt the team and driver failed to appeal the decision. On top of the 10 grid position penalty the Australian has been given a three race suspended ban.

Sauber rule out current crop of drivers

Peter Sauber whom is certain to lose at least one if not both of his current race drivers at the end of the season stated in Britain that he was in no hurry to find replacements. The Swiss team whom currently sit in 6th place in the Constructor's Championship has however ruled out signing the current crop of drivers on the grid. The Swiss team principal stated to AutoBild "We are in no hurry to find replacement drivers because at this stage no decision on either Jason or Giancarlo has been made. We are hopeful of retaining Giancarlo but admit that it is probable that both of them will leave at the end of the season. Whitest some names have been mentioned as possible candidates, I can state that we are not interested in any of the current drivers on the grid and at this stage we are looking elsewhere for alternatives should the need arise."

Sauber's comments will be welcome news to Jacques Villeneuve whom is speculated that he has already made contact with the team and eager to make a return to the pinnacle of motorsport in 2005. It is thought that ex Ferrari tester Felipe Massa and F3000 driver and Red Bull backed Vitantonio Liuzzi are favourites to land the drive. However the news will be less welcome to the current crop of drivers including David Coulthard whom is set to leave McLaren after nine years and is yet to sign a contract for the 2005 season.

Winton set for hearing after bumpy ride in Britain

Jason Winton fresh from his best ever GP finish at Britain finishing 4th could be in hot water after being reported for three separate incidents with three drivers at Silverstone. The Australian driver whom is expected to be announced at the BMW Williams at the German GP in two weeks time will attend a court hearing to discuss his actions. It is thought likely that the severest penalty could see him stripped of his 4th position or the more likely scenario of him losing ten grid positions at the German GP. The hearing is set for next Tuesday (December 21). A Sauber spokesperson has already confirmed that they will appeal any decision if Winton is found guilty.

Winton on verge of announcing new team for 2005

Jason Winton is expected to confirm in the next few races that he is set to switch to either Williams or Renault in 2005. The Australian whom has been one of the stars of the season, has admitted that he has held talks with both teams. New speculation has also suggested that his team-mate Giancarlo Fisichella whom has been outpaced by his Australian compatriot is also high on both teams wish list, thus it could leave Sauber looking for two new drivers for the 2005 season. Winton stated prior to the French GP "Discussions are continuing but as yet no contract has been signed. I also need to consider the amazing progress off Sauber this season and their plans for the future look very bright. Regardless, the decision will not be easy but at the moment I am focusing on racing and completing this season on a high."

Sauber delighted with his drivers

Peter Sauber is 'highly satisfied' with his Formula One drivers. The Swiss said Giancarlo Fisichella, who joined from Jordan this season, has been picking up 'more and more speed' after a difficult start in the C23. ''I've always considered [him] one of the best F1 drivers,'' said Sauber.

Jason Winton, meanwhile, has continued his metamorphic rise to F1 and is commonly regarded as the next thing after Schumacher. "I haven't been surprised with his speed, but he has matured incredibly and his mistakes are minimal and his technical skills are outstanding."

Sauber confident of mixing it with McLaren

McLaren is just five points ahead of Sauber in the '04 constructors' championship. Hinwil's Peter Sauber reckons the team was 'extremely unlucky' in the 'States but even so, he's struggling to be too disappointed about retaining 6th. Toyota, Jordan, Jaguar and Minardi are all firmly behind Sauber.

''When you consider the ... financial means of McLaren-Mercedes,'' he said, ''the matter should really be clear. But it doesn't mean we admit defeat.''

McLaren, with a budget probably five-times bigger, are just five points ahead of the little Swiss team. ''We see Toyota, Jordan and Jaguar as direct rivals.'' Sauber continued that the 'enormous investments' of the big works teams - like supplier Ferrari, BMW-Williams and Renault - are a little ''bit disconcerting. ''But we feel strong enough to accept this challenge.

''We do have a lower budget and ... resources, but we can be more efficient.''

Sauber or Williams?

Giancarlo Fisichella would be wise to stay at Sauber for another season if his only other option is the employ of BMW-Williams, according to his F1 boss. The rated Roman is a favourite, ironically with his better performing team-mate Jason Winton to replace Williams' current line-up of Juan Pablo Montoya and Ralf Schumacher in 2005.

But Peter Sauber doesn't think Williams' drivers 'are very happy' this season. The Swiss principal added: ''On the other hand, our team is on the rise and I think Fisichella could easily stay with us. At least I really hope he does.'' But if Sauber's works engine supplier comes knocking ... ?

''I'd tell him to go straight away,'' Sauber, referring to Ferrari, laughed. He told La Gazzetta dello Sport. ''He could have more. He can aim for that.''

Sauber to get stronger and stronger

Giancarlo Fisichella has tipped Sauber to get 'stronger and stronger' in 2004. The Italian, who moved to the Ferrari-powered team in a bid to get closer to its works supplier, smiled at the C23's rate of progress since the San Marino GP.

''I am very happy,'' Fisichella said in his signature remark. ''We made progress at Imola and now we've made some more here.''

31-year-old Giancarlo said he had a 'good balance' at the Circuit de Catalunya on Sunday despite having to carry 'a lot of fuel' in a novel race pit-strategy.

''There is a real improvement,'' the Roman continued to enthuse. ''If we keep going like this, then we can do really well in the future.''

And things look even better for the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix, as Giancarlo said it is his 'favourite circuit' and more championship points are likely.

Winton quicker than Ferrari regulars

Sauber's Jason Winton did himself no harm at all after eclipsing times set by Ferrari regulars Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello at the Mugello circuit in Italy. Winton, emerged slightly quicker than Michael Schumacher in which the same car was shared by the three drivers over the duration of the three day test session. Although the times may be difficult to gauge based on what the driver's where actually testing, it was an amazing achievement considering it was his first time behind the wheel of the F2004. Rumours continue that Winton is linked to the BMW Williams team for 2004 but with his dazzling speed and maturity, Winton may have strengthened his chances of driving alongside Michael Schumacher in a Ferrari in 2005.

Jason Winton:
"It was a great honour and privilege to drive for Ferrari again. This time it was especially memorable as I got the chance to see how the team operates with both Michael and Rubens in attendance. The F2004 is an amazing race car, not forgetting the fact that this car has won every race so far of the 2004 season. I would like to say thanks to Ferrari for giving me this opportunity and to let them I am available for future tests with the team if required. Finally I would like to thank Sauber, especially Peter Sauber for allowing this test to go through."

Test Details:

Improved Sauber for Spain

Sauber's C23 car will sport 'several' aerodynamic revisions in Barcelona. The Swiss-based team's state-of-the-art new wind tunnel went online a few months ago and its first aero-fruits hit the blue F1 challenger in Imola two weeks ago.

'We'll [also] have new parts ... for this race,' said technical director Willy Rampf ahead of Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Catalunya track.

He added: 'I hope we can carry on the trend of significant improvement.'

Driver Giancarlo Fisichella said the team made a 'big step forward' with the first aerodynamic revisions and also lauded a 'very reliable' race machine. 'I hope we can make a similar step for Barcelona,' said the Italian.

The team will be hoping to continue their good form, Jason Winton collected the team's first points of the season at the San Marnio GP a fortnight ago finishing in 7th position put more importantly ahead of the McLaren's of Coulthard and Raikkonen and the Renault of Jarno Trulli.

Winton to test for Ferrari again and earns praise of Ross Brawn

The Ferrari team has announced that Sauber Petronas driver Jason Winton will once again be given an opportunity to test for the Marenallo concern where he will partner Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello at Mugello prior to the Spanish GP. Winton whom has continued his excellent performances from last season partnering Mark Webber at Jaguar and this year alongside Giancarlo Fisichella is tipped to be joining a top four team in 2005 with Williams emerging as favourites. However Ferrari Technical Director Ross Brawn stated that the team (Ferrari) where actively pursuing a viable replacement for Schumacher in the near future.

"One day Michael's going to stop and you've got to look around and see who's the best at that stage. I think he's doing a fantastic job. He knows the circuits now and he's learning how to work with the teams and currently he is probably the hottest property in F1 at the moment. Of course by allowing him to test for the team shows us his real abilities and we were very excited with his performance the last time he tested for the team." Brawn said to BBC Radio. "I think Jason will be on that list for sure."

Brawn's comments bare a striking resemblance to the job Schumacher has done with the Scuderia. The German World Champion joined Ferrari at a time when fortunes were low and hopes were dismal, and with his own self-assurance and drive the former-Benetton driver helped Ferrari become the best team in the sport.

Prior to Bahrain, Winton was believed to have recommenced talks with the Williams team for the 2005 season but it may not be entirely out of the question that Winton could replace Rubens Barrichello as early as 2005. The Australian driver scored Sauber's first points of the season at Imola with Peter Sauber labelling his performance "gritty and determined".

Winton & Webber to fight it out for Williams drive?

Williams Technical Director Patrick Head stated after the Bahrain GP that he was impressed with both Australian drivers Jason Winton and Mark Webber but it would be an unlikely scenario that the team would do a Jaguar and have both (Winton & Webber - both Australian drivers) in the same team. Winton is favourite to secure a drive in the team next season after impressing against Mark Webber at Jaguar in 2003 and more recently Giancarlo Fisichella his 2004 team-mate at Sauber.

Patrick Head stated "I have been impressed with both Jason and Mark both drivers are of high calibre and have been performing well. I do think however it would be unlikely that we would have drivers in the team at the same time due to a combination of reasons. Obviously we have one confirmed vacancy for next season and we are in discussions with several drivers regarding the 2005 season and beyond." Jason Winton is believed to have reopened talks with Williams prior to the Bahrain GP and as mentioned is currently favourite to replace Juan-Pablo Montoya whom will be driving for McLaren in 2005.

Winton in talks with Williams (again)

Jason Winton is believed to have recommenced his negotiations with the Williams team where he left off from the 2003 season. Winton ultimately signed for the Swiss Sauber team for the 2004 season with the Williams team having firm contacts with both Juan-Pablo Montoya and Ralf Schumacher. Winton is one of the favourites to replace departing driver Montoya whom is moving to McLaren for the 2005 season. Renewed speculation has it that Winton and his Manager John Watson are close to signing on a two-year contract with the Grove based team but it is unclear when an announcement will be made. Winton has continued his outstanding performances from last season where he partnered another Williams front runner hopeful Mark Webber and this season against the highly regarded Roman Giancarlo Fisichella. Many pundits believe it is only a matter of time before the announcement is made official.

Sauber urges team to speed up

Peter Sauber has urged his Formula One team to speed up. Team drivers Jason Winton and Giancarlo Fisichella and  finished 9th and 14th places respectively in Bahrain with both drivers complaining of the ill-handling C23 race challengers.

'I was really struggling for grip, but the car did improve throughout the course of the weekend,' said Australian Winton.

Sauber, a Swiss, said Hinwil must 'work on the performance side.' But the blue Ferrari-powered car is not only at fault, he hinted.

Peter added: 'We should improve our speed during out laps after pit stops.'

Sauber convinced C23 has potential

Peter Sauber has vowed to improve the pace of his Formula One team. Some might assess that after failing to score a point from the first two grands prix of season-2004 does not represent a great start for the customer Ferrari-powered team.

'I've already said it would be extremely hard this year to score points.'

The team-owner added that Sauber was 'confident to get one' in Bahrain. Sauber, a German-speaking Swiss, is 'convinced' that the C23 has much potential.

It has been criticised as a Ferrari look-alike but Peter prefers to ignore the knockers and work-on giving his new Formula One drivers a better car each race. He said Giancarlo Fisichella and Jason Winton both have new race-engineers.

'I'm sure we'll further grow together and allow us to achieve more,' said Peter.

A positive sign is the apparent improvement of tyre-supplier Bridgestone. 'In Australia we got an all-new construction,' Sauber confirms, 'and in Malaysia we had the right compound to be competitive even in the very hot conditions, luck just wasn't on our side."

Winton believes Sauber can improve with new wind tunnel

Sauber invested a lot of money in its new wind tunnel and is expecting to see some results from it as the season goes along. Despite a minor setback recently, the facility should be aiding the development of the C23 by the time Formula One arrives in Europe. A 60% scale model of the car can be used in the wind tunnel, as well as the racecar itself for short simulations, which saves spending expensive time on the test track.

Trouble brewing over new Sauber

A storm is brewing in the Formula One pit lane. Team sources are reporting that a group of Formula One principals are unhappy that Sauber's new race-version is almost a carbon-copy of the Ferrari F2003-GA.

Jaguar chief Tony Purnell told the Evening Standard that the world champions could potentially be 'made stronger' by making Sauber their supporting-act. He said Ferrari may 'have access' to all the technical information and feedback of 'Team B' by effectively having four near-identical cars running in the race.

Sauber's race-pilots are also likely to test works Ferrari cars in 2004. Martin Whitmarsh, managing director at top-team McLaren, has studied photos of the two grand prix cars in question and said 'they certainly look similar.'

Purnell reckons the C23 is 'uncannily similar' to last year's scarlet racer. Sources close to the governing FIA insist that a protest of the cooperation is brewing although a spokesman said an inspection left everything 'above board'.

Ferrari-powered Sauber, meanwhile, are adamant that C23 is a distinct vehicle. A spokesman said the wheelbase is two inches shorter than the Ferrari F2004 and other sources explained how detail-changes appear to make the design legal.

Sauber to run Badoer?

Peter Sauber may run Luca Badoer in a 'third' C23 car this Formula One season. The Swiss is not utilising the 'bottom six' rule to full effect at Albert Park because he said Sauber does not have the proper 'infrastructure' to do so.

'At the moment, it makes no sense for us,' he said in Melbourne.

But speculation has lingered into this season-opening race that Sauber's close relationship with engine-supplier Ferrari might grant the funds to run a tester.  Sauber's C23 bears a striking resemblance to last year's scarlet car and Ferrari would be keen to glean more information at grands prix about Bridgestone tyres.

Peter denied that teen-tester Neel Jani is an obvious choice, and pumped-up the prospects of veteran development-man for world champions Ferrari, Luca Badoer.

'That makes no sense,' said Sauber. 'It's going to be important to have a driver with experience who has the knowledge of the circuit.

'Badoer. It could be.'

Fisichella and Winton at "Good morning Australia"

Before Giancarlo Fisichella and Jason Winton head to Melbourne's Albert Park they will be special guests at "Good Morning Australia" on Thursday, 4 March, from 9.00 to 9.15 a.m. local time talking about the upcoming season and giving a more personal insight into the world of Formula One.

In 2004, Network Ten's "Good Morning Australia" with its host Bert Newton enters its 13th year on Australian television.

Since television in Australia began in 1957, Bert Newton has been a favorite with the viewing public, visiting celebrities and critics alike, and became Australia's dearest son with his impeccable sense of timing and his natural warm humour.

Sauber offer to cool down Ferrari

Sauber are to offer details of an innovative new cooling system on its Formula One race-car to engine-supplier and world champion team Scuderia Ferrari. The famous Italian marque, which takes up to $25m from Sauber for supplying same-spec V10 engines, has a close relationship with its Swiss-based rival. Sauber's new-car is also fitted with a Ferrari-designed gearbox.

Reports in the Italian media reckon Sauber's cooling system is ultra- compact and therefore increases aerodynamic performance by allowing for smaller air intakes. Peter Sauber's team unveiled a look-alike 2003-Ferrari racer, dubbed C23, in Austria this season, reportedly to aid in Ferrari's collection of tyre-data.

A spokesman for the privately-owned outfit refused to make direct comment. He told us: 'Irrespective of your specific request concerning our cooling system, we generally don't discuss technical details of our race car in public.'

Sauber's radiators, to be fitted to the new Ferrari F2004 later this season, feature a rounded front section to increase cooling surface- area but not size.

FIA - Sauber not a Ferrari copy

Claims that Sauber's impressive new C23 is a direct copy of Ferrari's F2003-GA have been rejected outright by motor racing's governing body, the FIA. This is according to a story in this week's AUTOSPORT Magazine. In the wake of suggestions by rival teams that Sauber's 2004 contender is merely a repainted Ferrari, and is therefore against Formula 1's technical regulations, the FIA has insisted that there are no grounds for complaint.

A high-level source within the FIA said that it had been consulted during the entire design process of the C23, and that the paperwork, designs and manufacturing were all fully legal. The source said: “Everything is above board. The car is not the same as the Ferrari, but it is very similar.”

Peter Sauber, the owner of the Sauber team, told AUTOSPORT: “All cars are permanently evolving and teams look at what others do. There are lots of similarities throughout the paddock. “In our case, this is more so because we are using both the Ferrari engine and Ferrari gearbox.”

Badoer to drive third Sauber?

Ferrari tester Luca Badoer may drive a third Sauber on Fridays this season. The Maranello-based champions are willing to pay Peter Sauber to run a third-car at grand prix weekends, according to British publication Autosport.

'We do not have the budget to do the full season [of official practice sessions],' Sauber told the media before Christmas.  But Ferrari, who run on the same Bridgestone tyres and supply engines and gearboxes to Sauber, need all the track data they can get.  Tyre rivals Michelin have no less than six manufacturer-backed Formula One outfits on their books who can all afford to go all-out on the test tracks.

Bridgestone's other teams are cash-strapped Jordan and Minardi. Ferrari's desire to increase their pool of data in 2004 might also explain the F2003-GA look-alike Sauber C23, which features a similar single-keel monocoque.

C23 fails crash test

Sauber's handsome and noticeably more compact C23 Formula One racer has failed the FIA-imposed, mandatory crash tests, according to Willy Rampf. The Swiss team's technical director said Hinwil had worked hard to make 'everything smaller' on the new car 'and I think we paid the price for it.'

Rampf continued, 'The 2003 season soon made us realise where our weakness was.' Sauber has opted against its innovative twin-keeled chassis design for 2004 in favour of Ferrari's more conventional approach; with a single-keel monocoque.

C23 has obviously taken other design leafs out of the scarlet book, such as rounded sidepods, aero flip-ups ahead of the rear wheels, and the curved nose. 'The car will have to wait for the wind tunnel,' said Willy Rampf, 'so our challenge was designing a good car which is able to be developed much further.'

One innovation to be looked at in the new $55m tunnel is BMW-Williams 'tusks'. Rampf concluded: 'I think everyone will be looking at that again.' The Ferrari-powered C23 will sit its FIA exams again in February, 'and we're reasonably confident we can make the changes that are necessary, said Rampf.

Fisichella edges closer to to Ferrari dream

Italy's Giancarlo Fisichella has been handed an opportunity to stake a claim for a seat with Ferrari by agreeing a testing contract with the World Champions this year.

Fisichella, who will drive for Sauber in the 2004 Formula One world championship, has often expressed a desire to join one of the sport's top three teams and the close relationship between his current squad and Ferrari means that a test is highly likely to take place in 2004.

"For us it is important that Ferrari does a lot of tyre testing this year. If they need Jason or Giancarlo, they can do it," Fisichella's team boss Peter Sauber told Autosport magazine.

Ferrari is the only top team that will run Bridgestone tyres this year, and will have to shoulder most of the development work. Sauber, one of three other Bridgestone squads, will not be able to contribute as much as had been hoped.

"We will be doing more tyre testing if it's possible," said Sauber. "But that's the problem. We do not have the staff to do a lot of tyre testing."

Winton in secret talks with Williams?

The rumour mill is rife that Jason Winton has been involved in secret talks with the Williams team regarding a possible switch to the Grove based team in 2005. The 24-year old Australian sensation is contracted to Sauber for the 2004 season and is hotly tipped to move to a top four team in 2005 after a blinding rookie debut in 2003. Winton has also tested for Ferrari where he showed his potential by lapping faster than all Ferrari drivers present just a few weeks ago in Barcelona. Winton only just completed his first laps for his new team Sauber at Jerez where he will be partnered by the highly regarded and very experienced Italian Giancarlo Fisichella.

The story which appeared in a recent edition of Autosport, Britain's leading motorsport magazine claims that the Australian driver meet with Williams Technical Director and Team Principal Frank Williams only last week at a restaurant in Spildon, near Grove with Winton's recently appointed manager John Watson. Neither party has denied the parties meant, however John Watson stated "It was a pleasantry exchange nothing more. Jason was in the UK to some promotional duties with Puma and we happened by chance to meet with several of the Williams employees. For sure we talked about F1, it is a bit hard not to but it would be going a bit far to say that we are in secret talks with Williams, if we were which we aren't we would have done it in private." stated Watson.

Sauber and Ferrari broaden their collaboration

A few days ago, Jean Todt confirmed that Giancarlo Fisichella could drive a Ferrari in private testing this year, just like his Sauber teammate Jason Winton has already achieved. This announcement came as a surprise, since Peter Sauber himself was not aware of it.

"We already had an agreement with Ferrari concerning Jason Winton," explained Peter Sauber to Gazzetta dello Sport. "but we did not talk about a similar opportunity for Giancarlo Fisichella. If Ferrari needs him, I think it could be easily done for private testing since we only use one car at a time. Because of that, we have either one of our two drivers available for them."

Sauber and Ferrari are closer than ever: the Scuderia will use both drivers of the Swiss team but in return Sauber will have some benefits. "We can't afford to do as much testing as Ferrari so this will allow our drivers to try more new products from Bridgestone," mentioned Peter Sauber.

Another "first" for Sauber in 2004: The new C23 will be equipped with the same engine as the Ferrari F2004. Ever since 1997, Sauber always received Ferrari's previous generation of engine but this year, both teams will use the same power plant. This situation was dictated by the new regulation stipulating that each engine must last an entire race weekend. The only Ferrari engine specifically built to meet this requirement is the new 053 unit.

The collaboration between the two teams doesn't stop there. The Sauber C23's gearbox will be designed in Maranello, just like the rear suspensions. On the other hand, Sauber could allow Ferrari to use their brand new state-of-the-art wind tunnel. Ferrari will definitely be interested in the wind tunnel's advanced and exclusive features, such as the possibility to test two cars at the same time (one behind the other) to simulate air turbulences and slipstream conditions.

Sauber won't run a third car at every race

Sauber team boss Peter Sauber has revealed that his team will only run a third car in some of the practice sessions at next year’s grand prixs.

According to the new regulations, the bottom six teams are all allowed to run a third car and their spare car during the practice sessions at race weekends. This rule was voted in to compensate for the scrapping of the Heathrow agreement, the deal that allowed teams to test for two hours on the Friday morning of grand prix weekends.

Sauber though, has said that he won’t be using a third car at every single race, mainly due to financial concerns.

“We do not have the budget to do the full season (of official practice sessions),” Sauber told Blick.

Winton's remarks on Matkovic proved untrue

The Australian media network that released a story that stated that Winton made comments that he thought fellow competitor and countryman Derek Matkovic would not remain in F1 because he would not get the money has since been called a misinterpretation of facts. The media network has since issued an apology to both Jason Winton and Derek Matkovic and the commercial manager of Derek Matkovic has apologized for the comments he made in reference to Winton's remarks. Jason Winton remarked "It is amazing how some of the stories are misinterpreted and the context taking completely out of proportion. In future I will reserve my comments to reputable media outlets" stated the Australian.

First Winton and now Fisichella to test for Ferrari

Jean Todt declared last weekend that Giancarlo Fisichella might test a Ferrari next year during private testing. It would be real joy for the Italian, who has always wanted to drive for the Scuderia. Recently his 2004 team-mate Jason Winton was given the opportunity to test for the Scuderia outfit, which officially was classified as  Bridgestone development programme.

"I was happy to learn about this news," said Fisichella to Gazzetta dello Sport. "To drive a Ferrrari has always been my dream and if it becomes reality because of Sauber and Ferrari, they can be sure that I will reward them with all my dedication and professionalism."

Of course Tifosis are dreaming of having an Italian driver in a Ferrari and Fisichella might be the one, even if Luca di Montezemolo doesn't want to say that his team is ready to replace Rubens Barrichello.

"Winton and Fisichella work for a team which is very close to ours," mentioned Ferrari's president to the Italian press. "not only because we supply them engines or gearboxes but also because we have excellent human relations with them. Of course we are looking at the market right now but we have no problems with our drivers. Barrichello is under contract with us until the end of next year and we are talking about renewing this partnership. We will sign a contract with him when the time is right."

Winton doubts if Matkovic will get the cash

Up and coming F1 star Jason Winton has gone on record stating that he "doubts if Matkovic will get the cash to continue in F1". The Australian driver whom won rookie of the year award in 2003 driving for Jaguar will drive for the Swiss based Sauber Petronas team in 2004. In an interview conducted overseas with Australian television, Winton apparently didn't give much hope to Matkovic remaining in F1 in 2004. "The money the teams want (Minardi and Jordan) is a heap of money and realistically I doubt if he will get that much support from Australian companies. I am hearing figures over $10 million dollars, Derek really deserves being in F1 but I doubt if he will get the cash to continue in F1 if things stay as they are."

Matkovic and his management team though remain confident that they can satisfy the commercial requirements of Minardi's demands. "Quite frankly it is none of his business and he does not know the in and outs of what negotiations and discussions have taken place (referring to Jason Winton's claims). We have received some very positive news of late and things are developing well, however we can do away with the negative talk that some people seem like to comment on because they have nothing better to do or say. We want to keep the news close to our chest and when we are ready to make an announcement we will do it in the right forum." stated Matkovic's commercial Manager Damain Dowd.

Speculation continues that Network Ten one of Matkovic's main backers in 2003 will not renew there contract with the AGP board while discussions and negotiations continue with several other organisations including Carlton United, Gillette and Qantas all whom where onboard with Matkovic in 2003.

Winton to use new helmet and design in 2004

Jason Winton will unveil his new helmet this coming weekend when he debuts for Sauber at the Jerez circuit in Spain. The Australian whom won the rookie of the year award in 2003 has signed a new deal with helmet manufacturer Bell. However the change goes a little deeper than just a brand change, with a new striking livery to adorn the Bell helmet. The new look helmet is predominately chrome similar to Jarno Trulli's design. "I wanted something eye catching but also something that could be recognized and to lay a platform for future designs. A lot of fans relate to helmet liveries so it was important to make the change now as opposed to further down the road where hopefully I might be in a position to win races. The design that I will using at the upcoming test session is a beta release, so no doubt there will be some changes prior to the start of the season in Melbourne next year."

Fisichella wants to show his talent

Right from the start of the 2003 season, Giancarlo Fisichella said that he did not want to stay very long at Jordan and that his goal was to join either Williams, McLaren or Ferrari.

A few months later, the Italian had to face reality: none of the top teams had a place for him. Giancarlo decided to move to Sauber, a team that designs a car which has a lot of common parts with its Ferrari cousin.

"In 2004 we will have a new version of the Ferrari motor in our Sauber," said Giancarlo at the Bologna Motorshow. "I hope it will be a season where I can show what I'm worth. The future is always full of surprises. A call from Ferrari? It seems unlikely to me, but if it comes I'll be happy to consider it."

Giancarlo Fisichella was clearly not satisfied with the reliability and performance of the Jordan EJ13 last season. Fisichella is counting on the new Sauber C23 to improve his status. This new car will be unveiled on 12 January (GP4 March 22) at the Hangar-7, only a few kilometres away from the Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Airport in Salzburg, Austria.

Winton impressive on Ferrari debut

Jason Winton labelled his Ferrari test as a great opportunity and a fantastic day after completing one day of tyre testing with the Marenello concern at the Barcelona circuit in Spain. The 24 year-old Australian whom will race for Sauber in 2004 alongside Giancarlo Fisichella was invited by the Ferrari team to complete a tyre test programme for Bridgestone. "It was a great day and I really enjoyed working with the team and to get an idea on how one of the best teams operate, I won't forget the experience in a hurry. The test was geared solely at tyres testing for Bridgestone, it was the first time I have driven on the Japanese rubber and my first impressions are that they have done a very good job on new compounds for the 2004 season. I was very satisfied with the performance, and hopefully I was able to give the engineers some sound feedback. I really hope I get the chance to test for Ferrari again it was a great opportunity and a fantastic day, I really hope I get a similar opportunity again in the future. For now though, my focus returns to Sauber where I will drive a Sauber for the first time at the Jerez circuit, I am really looking forward to that."

The Australian driver completed some 78 laps of the Barcelona circuit, posting the fastest time not only off the day but the actual test session recording a best time of 1m18.764s. Jean Todt was delighted with Winton's performance "Jason did an outstanding job, and whilst the test was by no means an evaluation for speed, he did an incredible job and contributed a lot of information to the Bridgestone engineers. I hope in the future that Jason will again get the opportunity to test for the team."

Sauber "The road to the top is getting harder"

Sixth-placed F1 constructor Sauber has vowed to up its game in 2004. But team owner Peter Sauber, a Swiss-German, doesn't expect the mid-field in Formula One to get any less competitive next season.

'Our objectives are to significantly improve our performance,' Sauber, one of the three remaining non-manufacturer teams in the sport, told us exclusively.  The 2003-spec, C22 racer was held back by its poor aerodynamics.

'How well we do [in 2004], to a large extent, really depends on how quick we can implement the results from our new wind tunnel on the track,' Peter said. Sauber has already confirmed that an all-new Ferrari-powered racer, the C23, will have its wraps taken off in Austria in the early days of January.

'There are other factors we can't influence,' Sauber continues, 'like tyre performance, weather, and racers' luck.' He reckons Formula One will look more competitive in 2004 than it ever has before, making the challenge for independents tougher still.

'This sport has become a global marketing platform,' said Sauber, 'with seven automobile manufacturers. They all have the goal to win the championship.' Peter concluded: 'As a consequence investments and competition will move up to a level as high as it has never been before.'

Winton will test for Ferrari at Barcelona

(Testing Schedule and Results Page)

The Ferrari team have confirmed that Jason Winton will test for the team at the coming test session in Barcelona. The Australian driver whom will compete with Sauber in the 2004 Championship has been given the opportunity to help Bridgestone develop their 2004 compounds with speculation that BAR are set to switch to Michelin tyres. While Michelin shod teams will head to Valencia in Southern Spain with Jaguar, Williams, McLaren, Toyota and Renault, Bridgestone shod teams will test at Barcelona with Ferrari, BAR and Sauber teams. However with BAR believed to be trying to find a way out of their contract with the Japanese marque it could result in either BAR missing the test or heading to Valencia on Michelin tyres.

Sauber traditionally only bring one car with them for testing, and the team has elected to run Giancarlo Fisichella for the entire three day test while the deal will be reciprocated with Jason Winton when the team head to Jerez where he will be driving for the entire three days. Ferrari will be bringing three cars to the test, and have also called on former test driver Luciano Burti to assist nominated test drivers Luca Badoer and Felipe Massa with development work. Winton will be working with Bridgestone predominantly while the other drivers will also be gathering data towards Ferrari's 2004 race car.

Jason Winton

"I am very grateful for firstly Ferrari offering me to drive their car and secondly for Sauber allowing me the opportunity to do the test. I am really looking forward to getting back behind the wheel of an F1 race car, and a Ferrari at that. My objective for the test is to assist Bridgestone with tyre development on their 2004 compounds, and obviously I will be taking it all in knowing that I will be driving a Ferrari. It will also be interesting to see how the team operates. I can't wait to drive the F2003-GA and than of course I have a test at Jerez the following week with Sauber where also I am excited about not only driving the car but getting to know the team and hopefully build up a strong relationship."

John Watson appointed Manager of Jason Winton

Former F1 race winner John Watson has been appointed Jason Winton's new manager effective immediately. The 57 year old Englishman whom raced in F1 between 1973 and 1985 accumulating 152 race starts replaces Jackie and Paul Stewart. Since retiring from F1, Watson has raced for the Jaguar and Toyota Sports Car Teams and also gave Eddie Jordan's new F1 challenger it's first track test back in 1991. Watson also has his own driving school based at Silverstone and has been commentating for the Eurosport satellite TV channel for several years.

Watson last made headlines for his remarkable claims when he suggested that the FIA impose sprinkler systems to make the races for entertaining, however Watson since claimed they where tongue in cheek comments not to be taken seriously. Often outspoken, but highly regarded Watson has a wealth of F1 experience and contacts which convinced Winton that Watson would be a good manager.

Jason Winton

"With my association with Jackie and Paul (Stewart), I have meet John (Watson) quite a few times and when the opportunity arose to find a new manger it made perfect sense to have a chat with John to see if he was interested. John has an extensive knowledge and his database of contacts is nothing short to remarkable. John being still actively involved in F1 and knowing the business intimately also made the decision that much easier. I would like to thank Jackie and Paul for all there help and perseverance and also thank the for introducing and endorsing John to took after my affairs as an independent in future discussions."

John Watson

"I am very excited with my new appointment and it will be great to get back amongst the thick of things in F1 on a personal basis. Jason is an outstanding talent with the world at his feet and he truly does have Champion written all over him. I would have taken this position if I did not think that Jason was going to go places and I am very honoured that he has elected to put his confidence behind me. I look forward to working with Jason closely in the years ahead and to help Jason progress in his career in his quest to become World Champion."

Sauber sad to see the departure of Heidfeld

Peter Sauber is still batting for beleaguered former driver Nick Heidfeld. Sauber, the Swiss-German team owner, called his decision to axe the 26-year-old German ahead of season 2004 a 'political' one. 'I have a bad feeling now,' Peter said, 'because I liked working with him.' Sauber described 'Quick Nick', the former F3000 champion, as 'very professional' and 'very precise - especially on the technical side.' He continued: 'It's so easy for the engineers to work with him.'

Heidfeld will be replaced, at the Ferrari-powered Sauber team, by 2003 Jaguar driver Jason Winton and Ferrari-mad Giancarlo Fisichella, an Italian. Nick, born in Moenchengladbach, recently visited Eddie Jordan's F1 factory but still brands post-season 2003 as the 'worst moments' of his life. Peter Sauber reckons Heidfeld might be better-off now plumping for a test-drive. 'It's important for him to go to a team that doesn't have two strong drivers,' he advised.

Fisichella free to leave if top team comes knocking

Ferrari-powered F1 team Sauber will let Giancarlo Fisichella leave in 2005 if a top-three operation comes knocking. The Roman switches from Jordan to Swiss-based Sauber next season in a calculated attempt to woo the attentions of Ferrari, McLaren or Williams. Asked why he plumped for a two-year stay at Peter's team, however, Fisichella said: 'I wanted to show Sauber that I am committed to work hard for them.'

But he insists that arrangements are already in place to ensure that he can get out of the binding document if a winning team wants him. 'Peter Sauber said that if there is an offer from one of the top three teams, I would be able to leave,' said Giancarlo.

He likened any potential move in '95 to Kimi Raikkonen's switch from a long-term Sauber deal to spearheading McLaren's charge for the world championship. Fisichella said his targets would stay 'realistic' at Sauber in 2004 but he's hoping to see the podium.

Winton set to test for Ferrari in 2004

With many believing that Jason Winton's appointment at Sauber in 2004 is going to go a long way forward to securing him a Ferrari seat possibly as soon as 2005, comes the news that Ferrari will invite Jason Winton to test drive for the team in 2004. Ferrari boss Jean Todt stated that they would be very interested in seeing Jason in one of the scarlet cars in 2004 provided that Sauber where in agreeance and that time permitted the opportunity to arise. The news will be very welcomed from Jason Winton himself whom established himself with a reputation as one of the quickest drivers over one lap and was rewarded with rookie of the year award in 2003.

Fisichella expecting a difficult season at Sauber

Giancarlo Fisichella is targeting the podium on his imminent switch from struggling team Jordan to Hinwil-based Sauber in 2004. The disillusioned Roman, however, admits that a move from one of F1's three privateers to another is not really the revolution he is looking for at age 30.

'Obviously it's going to be a difficult season even there,' he told the latest edition of Formula One Magazine. Giancarlo added: 'But if the car is good I can do my best, show my talent, score some points, maybe get on the podium somewhere.' Some hint that Fisichella's move to the Ferrari-powered outfit might be step one of a two-step plan to go racing with the works Scuderia in 2005.

'I really want to drive a good car, and I don't know why I can't,' he said. 'It annoys me. My target is still to drive for one of the top teams.' Peter Sauber, who this week announced Jason Winton as Fisichella's team-mate in 2004, is a fan of the highly-rated Italian.

'I have been wanting to do [the deal with Fisichella] for 3 years,' he said. 'He fights and always gets the best out of a race no matter what his position.'

Return to Home    Return to Sauber    Return to Williams