Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber Unleashes the C45

The covers are off; the spotlights are on—Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber has unveiled its 2025 challenger C45 in front of 14,000 fans at F175 LIVE, Formula One’s historic joint car launch celebrating the sport’s 75th anniversary. The O2 Arena in London set the stage for an electrifying reveal as the team showcased its latest machine draped in a bold, unmistakable livery. The signature black and green design, illuminated under the bright lights, sent a clear message: this car is here to make a statement.

As the team’s fresh driver lineup, Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto joined Chief Operating Officer & Chief Technical Officer Mattia Binotto on stage, the intent was clear—this is a machine built to grind, to hustle, and to push forward in one of the most competitive grids in Formula One history.

The C45, set to hit the track at next week’s Bahrain Pre-Season Test, is the culmination of months of relentless development at the team’s base in Hinwil, Switzerland. This car is engineered to deliver results and is designed to do more than look aggressive. Led by Technical Director James Key, the team has scrutinized every detail in the relentless pursuit of performance, ensuring that the progress made at the end of last season in Abu Dhabi is just the beginning.

A combination of evolution and revolution, the C45 embodies the hard work of countless engineers and designers who have been refining it through the winter. Under the current regulations, this final iteration boasts a fully re-engineered aerodynamic package, mechanical refinements beneath its sleek exterior, an optimized cooling system, and a new front and rear suspension architecture. Its aggressive yet streamlined design ensures it stands out on and off the track.

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Following its testing debut in Bahrain, the 2025 Formula One World Championship officially kicks off in Melbourne on March 16. With a dynamic new driver pairing and a machine built to challenge expectations, Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber is ready to take on the fight.

Leadership Perspectives on C45:

Mattia Binotto, COO & CTO:
“The C45 is the result of months of dedication and tireless work by every department within our team. We are incredibly proud of our achievements, but this is just the beginning. Formula One is an ever-evolving battleground, and success hinges on continuous development. We have made significant advancements in aerodynamics, efficiency, and overall balance, all of which will be crucial in keeping us competitive throughout the season. However, true success extends beyond car performance—it’s about how we operate as a team, execute race weekends, and maximize every opportunity. Our mission is clear: to keep improving, fight hard, and lay a foundation for long-term growth.”

James Key, Technical Director:
“Seeing the C45 come to life is gratifying for everyone involved. This car represents a fusion of proven strengths and fresh innovation. We’ve taken what we learned from the C44—where we made significant strides at the end of last season—and introduced new concepts to unlock additional performance. With a complete revision of our aerodynamics, reworked front and rear suspension, enhanced cooling systems, and a refined mechanical setup, we believe this car will allow us to be more competitive. The development race never stops, and we already have a roadmap for further upgrades early in the season. The field is incredibly tight, but we are confident the C45 marks a significant step forward.”

Driver Reactions:

Nico Hulkenberg, Race Driver:
“A new team brings new challenges, but the energy within Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber has been fantastic. I’ve reunited with some familiar faces from my first stint with Sauber, but much has changed over the last decade. The spirit in this team is strong, and we’re all focused on moving forward. The off-season has never been my favourite time of the year, so I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel for testing. With Gabriel by my side, we’re ready to push hard and drive this team’s progress forward.”

Gabriel Bortoleto, Race Driver:
“The winter has been intense, with many hours spent in the simulator and with the team, preparing for what’s ahead. Every lap we complete in testing is a valuable step in helping me adapt to Formula One. I’m incredibly excited to embark on this journey with the team, and I believe the C45 has the potential to take a real step forward. We know the fierce competition, but we trust our preparation and are ready to give it our all.”

With a striking new challenger, an ambitious technical direction, and a determined lineup, Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber is set to make waves in the 2025 Formula One season. The fight begins now.