Sauber and RB commence 2025 F1 preparations at Imola

Sauber and Racing Bulls are set to commence their 2025 Formula 1 preparations with an extensive testing program at Imola this week, providing crucial track time for rookies Gabriel Bortoleto and Isack Hadjar alongside their experienced teammates.

Racing Bulls leads testing schedule

Racing Bulls will initiate the three-day testing program at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari on Tuesday, utilizing their 2023-spec AT04 chassis from the team's previous AlphaTauri era.

The test will mark an important milestone for French rookie Isack Hadjar, who will share driving duties with established team driver Yuki Tsunoda.

Sauber joins midweek running

The action intensifies from Wednesday as Sauber enters the fray, bringing their 2022 C42 challenger for newly-signed veteran Nico Hulkenberg and Formula 2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto.

Both drivers, who previously worked with the team during December's Abu Dhabi post-season test, will continue familiarizing themselves with their new environment across Wednesday and Thursday.

Testing restrictions and weather considerations

This testing program operates under the FIA's newly implemented restrictions on Previous Car Testing (TPC), which now limits teams to just 1000km and four days of running with regular grand prix drivers.

These regulations aim to prevent teams from exploiting older machinery for current development purposes rather than its intended role in young driver training.

The weather forecast adds an intriguing dimension to the test, with rain predicted for both Wednesday and Thursday.

While this might impact the planned running, it could prove invaluable for rookies Hadjar and Bortoleto, offering rare wet-weather experience in Formula 1 machinery.

Ferrari preparations continue

Meanwhile, in a separate development, Lewis Hamilton marked a significant milestone with his first public appearance at Ferrari's Maranello facility on Monday.

The seven-time world champion's extensive visit encompasses team introductions, simulator work, and seat fitting preparations.

Hamilton is expected to make his testing debut for the Scuderia on Wednesday at the team's Fiorano test track, sharing the 2022 F1-75 with Charles Leclerc.