Sauber Returns Under New Identity for 2024-25

After running as Alfa Romeo Formula 1 Team since 2019, the Hinwil-based outfit will revert to operating under its original Sauber identity from 2024.

However, major sponsors Stake and Kick.com will feature prominently in the official team name - Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber.

The Sauber chassis will also be renamed Kick Sauber for the next two seasons before Audi's planned takeover in 2026.

Transition to Interim Identity

With Alfa Romeo not renewing its naming rights deal, Sauber Motorsport resurfaces as the organization running the team.

Online gambling platform Stake continues its title sponsorship from 2022, while streaming provider Kick.com has increased its involvement as co-title sponsor and chassis naming rights partner.

As per the deal, Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber will likely compete under the alternate Kick Formula 1 Team Sauber brand at select 2024 races, similar to this year's events in Australia, Spain, Belgium, and Qatar.

A one-off livery showcasing Kick's purple and black colors was run at Spa in 2022.

Away from branding changes, Sauber's long-held ethos of innovation and unconventional thinking has been cited as the driving force behind the tie-up.

Both Stake and Kick are focused on using technology to transform fan engagement in their respective fields.

Kick's emphasis on immersive, fast-paced content mirrors the on-track action. Their collaboration aims to pioneer inventive forms of fan interaction.

Chassis Development Under New Name

The team's 2024 challenger will be dubbed as the Kick Sauber C44, following Kick's acquisition of chassis naming rights.

Despite over 25 years since Sauber's last self-branded F1 car, they have retained manufacturing and design capabilities through the years alongside branding partnerships.

Facilities at Hinwil have been upgraded recently under Audi's future influence.

2024-2025: Building Towards Audi Takeover

Sauber's preparations during the next two seasons will be geared towards Audi's planned program launch in 2026.

The German marque is acquiring a controlling stake in Sauber Motorsport to use their infrastructure and F1 entry. While further details are unconfirmed, Audi is expected to review all operational aspects over 2024-2025.

From driver lineups to personnel changes, major decisions in the interim period will likely be influenced by Audi's long-term vision. With no further ties to Alfa Romeo, Sauber has greater freedom to chart its course.

The fresh Stake-Kick identity signifies a transitional phase before the Four Rings' era truly kicks off in 2026.