Day one of Bahrain testing - Sauber

Bahrain International Circuit, 8th April 2014 – The Sauber F1 Team enjoyed a good first day of testing in Bahrain. In the morning the team was able to do some aero work including measurements on the C33. During the afternoon session, the Sauber F1 Team continued its programme with some long runs. Sergey Serotkin drove the C33 for the first time at the Bahrain International Circuit. The Russian completed more than 300 km, which is a requirement to receive the super licence.

Circuit: Bahrain International Circuit / 5.412 km

Driver: Sergey Sirotkin

Weather: Sunny, air 25-31 °C, track 32-44 °C

Chassis / engine: C33-03 / Ferrari

Laps today: 76 laps

Fastest lap: 1:39.023

Paul Russell, Test Engineer: It was a good day. We did everything we wanted to do and completed our test programme. In the morning we did some aero measurements and the procedures went well. With the new medium tyres Sergey continuously improved his lap times. We practiced all the procedures associated with the car. With the new power unit there is a lot to do for the driver. As he had not driven the car before and did not know the track either, he had a lot to do in the cockpit. Sergey had to learn all of this and he handled it pretty well. The lap times were very good. He seemed to be learning the car and the track quite well. In the afternoon, we continued our programme and finished the day with the long runs. All in all, it was a positive day.

Sergey Sirotkin: Everything felt great today. It was the first time for me in Bahrain and I liked the track. In comparison to what I am used to driving in World Series by Renault, I have quite a lot more engine power and more acceleration with the Sauber C33. On my fast lap in the morning I made a few mistakes, so I probably lost a second. But all in all, it was a good start to the session. In the afternoon we had some difficulties with my shoes. They were too small, so it was pretty painful when I was braking. When we changed the shoes, it was still not the best and difficult to drive. It was not easy, but I am glad we completed the 300 kms. We know that there is a lot of potential for improvement and we should all be happy with this.

What comes next Tomorrow test and reserve driver Giedo van der Garde will take over the wheel of the Sauber C33-Ferrari.