Sauber confirms Zander as new technical director

The current technical chief of Audi Sport in WEC will begin work for Sauber at the start of 2017, returning to the team which he worked for back in 2006 and 2007.

Speaking about his new challenge, Zander said: "The new Formula 1 regulations offer a great opportunity to point the way with innovations and technical creativity.

"One of my tasks will be to define a stable and efficient technical organisation that evolves the potential of creativity and, therefore, the basis for the development of successful Formula 1 cars.

"Initially we obviously want to improve and establish ourselves as a team in the midfield. Overall it is a challenge which I await with excitement and enthusiasm."

Zander's appointment is the latest in a recruitment drive that Sauber has been able to pull off following the takeover by Longbow Finance earlier this year.

He follows in the footsteps of high profile technical signings Xevi Pujolar and Ruth Buscombe.

Team principal Monisha Kaltenborn said: "This is a very important step for the implementation of our strategic goals, in order to guide the team into a new and successful era.

"Zander fits well into our team, he has a lot of know-how in Formula 1, as well as in motorsport in general. As technical director he will have the overview as well as the responsibility for all technical departments.

"In our factory in Hinwil he will have the possibilities to work technically at a very high level. We are convinced we will make progress with him. We wish Jorg Zander a good start on his return to Sauber, for which we ensure him our full support."

As well as working for BMW Sauber previously, Zander has enjoyed spells at Toyota, BAR, Williams and Honda/Brawn.