2025 Belgian Grand Prix: Preview

Hinwil, 22 July 2025 – KICK Sauber F1 Team returns to the track as it heads to Spa-Francorchamps and the final double header before the summer break. The team has been on an encouraging run of point-scoring performances in recent rounds including Nico Hulkenberg’s memorable podium finish at Silverstone. With the third Sprint event of the season on the weekend schedule, the focus remains on maximising every opportunity to win places and score points.

Team Quotes

Jonathan Wheatley, Team Principal: “Silverstone marked a special moment for everyone in the team, and the two weeks away from the track allowed us to enjoy it a little longer. Importantly, our recent results have increased the level of self-belief across the team, both trackside and at the factory: we know we can compete. We now carry that momentum into an intense Sprint weekend in Spa. Taking learnings from our recent run of form, we know that operational consistency and a focus on the details will put us in the best position to qualify well and ultimately score points.” 

Nico Hulkenberg (car number 27): “Silverstone was unforgettable – the joy that race brought to the team will stay with us. But now, our focus shifts to the races ahead. Spa is a true classic on the calendar: fast, challenging, and always unpredictable weather conditions. With this being a Sprint weekend, it’s going to be a busy few days for us. We have made some positive progress lately, and we must keep that momentum up to stay ahead of our main competitors. If we do our homework day after day, I believe we can be in the mix again this weekend.”

Gabriel Bortoleto (car number 5): “I’ve always enjoyed racing at Spa during my junior career, so I’m really looking forward to experiencing it in a Formula One car for the first time. Over the past two weeks away from the track, I made the most of the break – taking some time to rest during a busy European season, while also training and preparing for the upcoming races in the simulator. The atmosphere in the team is very positive right now, and that gives me extra motivation; we'll need to be at the top of our game this weekend, especially with the added challenge of a Sprint which means less practice time to get things right. I want to keep learning, keep improving, and do my part to help us finish this first half of the season strongly.”