Alfa Romeo has finally revealed the date for their car launch. Formerly known as Sauber, the team will take the covers off on the first day of F1 testing.
Alfa Romeo to unveil car during testing
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Alfa Romeo also revealed their 2019 car on the first day of winter testing. The Swiss-based outfit will be hoping for a stronger result this year, following a lackluster performance.
Alfa is looking to make a major step up following some major upgrades to their wind tunnel and a brand-new simulator.
Alfa Romeo was dependent on Ferrari’s “spider” for car development and testing. The Spider was Ferrari’s 2019 simulator. Alfa Romeo was quite dependent on Maranello when it came to collecting valuable data from the car.
2019 saw Kimi Raikkonen return to Alfa Romeo after 18 years. The iceman had made his debut for the team back in 2001 – when it was called Sauber. The team finished 8th in the points following a mixed campaign.
Positive news for 2020
2019 also saw the full-time return of Antonio Giovanizzi-who had driven a few races for Sauber in 2017. Giovinazzi started the season slowly but went on to outqualify Raikkonen on several occasions. The team’s best result came at the Brazilian Grand Prix, with Raikkonen and Giovinazzi finishing 4th and 5th respectively.
Alfa has a unique driver pairing in Kimi Raikkonen and Antonio Giovinazzi. In 2020, the Finn will surpass Rubens Barrichello’s record of 322 races to become F1’s most experienced driver. The iceman’s immense experience in the sport will be very useful in developing the car. Alfa Romeo will greatly benefit from Kimi’s expertise and Giovinazzi’s performances throughout the year.
Kimi-who turns 41 next year, had a nonchalant response to achieving a major milestone in F1.
The team also recently signed former Williams driver Robert Kubica. The Pole will join the team in 2020 as a development driver, taking part in the free practice sessions. Kubica’s involvement also signalled Orlen’s entry as a sponsor. This provides the team with some much-needed financial backing heading into next season.
The team will be rebranded as Alfa Romeo Racing Orlen in 2020. Formula one winter testing will begin on February 19, 2019.
Hang in there lads, only 51 days to go till lights out in Melbourne.
