Title: Sauber’s Bold Strategy: Why Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto Are Left Waiting for the 2026 Car Sim Test
In a surprising twist that has left fans and analysts buzzing, Sauber Formula 1’s sporting director Inaki Rueda has shed light on the team’s controversial decision to keep drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto from testing the highly anticipated 2026 car in the simulator. As the world of motorsport gears up for a seismic shift with the introduction of groundbreaking regulations, Sauber’s calculated approach is raising eyebrows.
The 2026 F1 season promises to be a game-changer, featuring lighter vehicles that boast a revolutionary 50/50 balance between sustainable fuel internal combustion engines and potent electric components. Among the myriad of changes, the much-anticipated DRS (Drag Reduction System) will be replaced by cutting-edge active aerodynamics and a formidable power boost. This is not just an evolution; it’s a revolution, and Sauber is taking no chances.
While rival teams are already putting their drivers through the paces in simulators, Hulkenberg has publicly confirmed that he is still waiting for his chance to get behind the wheel of the future car. In a candid statement to Motorsport.com, he expressed, “Soon, soon. I think it’s still all evolving quite a lot and quickly, so they don’t want to give a false impression and false reference.” His words hint at the underlying tension and anticipation building within the team.
Rueda provided a clear explanation for this strategic delay, emphasizing two key factors: logistical challenges and technical uncertainties. He revealed, “With the calendar as it is, it’s very difficult to get the drivers enough sim time.” The tight schedule means that drivers like Hulkenberg and Bortoleto are forced to split limited simulator time across multiple circuits, creating a logistical nightmare for the team.
To illustrate, Rueda pointed out that while Hulkenberg was in the simulator last Friday, Bortoleto had to take his turn on Monday, both working on the setups for the Zandvoort and Monza circuits. The sheer difficulty of scheduling enough time for both drivers to test the new car adds a layer of complexity that cannot be ignored.
On the technical front, Rueda expressed concerns about the realism of the current C46 model. He stated, “How realistic is our C46 model today? Because it’s still developing, and because the regulations are new, it’s developing at a big rate.” This statement underscores the fluid nature of the development process as the team strives to create a car that meets the new standards while ensuring that drivers are not misled by an outdated prototype.
Rueda tantalizingly hinted that he knows the exact date when the drivers will finally get their first taste of the C46 car, but he remains tight-lipped. “You don’t want to do it too early with the fear that the car that you’re going to show to them is still very different from what they will actually drive,” he cautioned. This foresight showcases Sauber’s commitment to ensuring that their drivers are adequately prepared for the challenges ahead.
In conclusion, as the countdown to the 2026 season continues, Sauber’s strategic patience may very well pay off. With a careful balance of logistics and technology, the team is not just waiting; they are preparing for a monumental leap into the future of Formula 1. Fans and insiders alike will be watching closely to see how this bold strategy unfolds. Will Sauber’s approach set a new standard in the sport, or will it leave them trailing behind? Only time will tell.
