Alfa Romeo returns to Formula 1 with Sauber
It was announced today that Italian marque Alfa Romeo will make a return to Formula 1 after 30 years.
They will enter a partnership with Swiss team Sauber, with the team being renamed to Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team from 2018.
C36, Sauber F1 Team's 2017 car
Whilst the announcement is significant by way of funds for Sauber, and the return of Alfa Romeo to the premier motorsport series, it is noteworthy that the company is part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, which also owns the Ferrari. It signals a commitment from the group (and Ferrari) to the sport, weeks after they threatened to pull out of the sport. Further, it gives Ferrari a chance to run a "B Team" in Sauber (much like Toro Rosso for Red Bull) whilst providing exposure for the Alfa Romeo brand in Formula 1. Rumours are circulating as to the line up for the team in 2018, but young Monegasque driver Chares Leclerc seems to be lined up to take one of the two seats next year. Leclerc, 20, has had a stunning junior career and recently wrapped up the Forumla 2 title with several races to go.
The last time Alfa Romeo was in Formula 1 as a full manufacturer was 1985
Nice to see Alfa Romeo back in the F1!
It will be interesting to see how they work w/Sauber, and how Ferrari will operate in the sport. They now have a team in their corner (more so than before) and a junior team for their driver academy...