Nico Hulkenberg stunned the field to finish 5th at the Spanish GP, pushing Sauber from last to 8th in the standings.
Following a series of relatively uncompetitive weekends, the Swiss team brought their biggest updates of 2025 to Spain.
These upgrades were highly anticipated, representing a significant investment from the factory in Hinwil.
In an era where upgrades often fall short of expectations, Sauber exceeded all of them in Barcelona.
The C45 was more competitive in every aspect, particularly in the medium-speed corners that characterise the Spanish GP.
Sauber have more upgrades planned in the coming weeks, which could further consolidate their position in the midfield.
Sauber put themselves in contention
Sauber finished last year’s F1 campaign in last place, with Zhou Guanyu securing the team’s only points in Qatar.
One positive, however, was that their late-season updates in Las Vegas hit their performance targets.
This put the team in a better position heading into 2025, though Sauber remained at the back of the pack in round one.
Since Australia, most teams in the midfield have introduced some upgrades.
For many, such as Aston Martin and Haas, these changes have involved quite substantial aerodynamic modifications.
Because of this, Sauber were in desperate need of a response at the Spanish GP.
This is precisely what they got with their C45 updates, which allowed Hulkenberg to finish 5th and also allowed Gabriel Bortoleto to fight for the top 10.
In a race that was punishing on tyres, tyre management was well managed by the Hinwil squad.
Nico Hulkenberg discussed the impact of the team’s upgrades post-race:
“Everything clicked. Good start, mega first lap.
“Made a bunch of positions – which was the foundation for the race.
“After that, to be honest, it was just a good car. Good rhythm, good balance and harmony.
“The updates really paying dividends, which was very enjoyable and great to see.”
The next phase of Sauber’s development
As a team in the midfield, Sauber have the luxury of switching their development towards 2026 earlier – should they deem this necessary.
Next year is obviously of tremendous importance for Sauber, as they transition into Audi F1.
Despite this, Jonathan Wheatley’s team still have more in store for their 2025 challenger.
As reported by it.motorsport, another set of upgrades should arrive to the C45 in the coming weeks.
Sauber aim to bring these updates before the summer break – at which point development for the new regulations will surely become the priority.
For various reasons, Audi’s engine programme faces some significant hurdles ahead of 2026.
Bridging the gap to more established manufacturers such as Mercedes, Ferrari and Honda will be difficult.
Because of this, paradoxical as it may seem, it makes sense for Sauber to bring another series of updates to the C45.
Of course, the upgrades currently in development were already been decided upon months ago – prior to Sauber’s breakthrough result in Spain.
The next package for the C45 has already been designed, with the team now in the production phase.
Regardless, the Swiss outfit are now a legitimate force in the midfield.
Should they make further improvements, especially with the likes of Williams already focused on 2026, Sauber could further establish themselves as regular points contenders.
Whilst they face an uphill battle ahead of next year, they cannot be written off in the remaining fifteen rounds of this season.
Main photo: David Ramos/Getty Images (via Sauber media gallery)
