Formula 1 News: Sauber Appoints Stefano Sordo as Performance Director Ahead of Audi Transition
Sauber Bolsters Technical Team with Experienced Motorsport Executive
As Sauber gears up for its transformation into Audi in 2026, the team has announced the appointment of Stefano Sordo as its new Formula 1 Performance Director. This strategic move comes as Audi prepares to enter the series as a works entrant following the introduction of brand-new technical regulations.
Sordo, who boasts an impressive background in motorsport, will report to Technical Director James Key and play a pivotal role in unlocking Sauber’s performance potential. The Italian has held senior positions at McLaren and Red Bull, where he tasted title success, before serving as Technical Director at RLL Racing in the United States.
“I am delighted to join Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber and take on a role that will have a direct impact on unlocking the performance we already have within our company, and help it reach new heights,” Sordo said. “The team is at a crucial juncture in its history, with the start of the Audi adventure just around the corner, and I am looking forward to tackling the challenge that lies ahead.”
Sauber’s current season has been plagued by disappointment, with the overhauled C44 car failing to deliver a point in the first nine races. However, the team remains optimistic about its future prospects, particularly with the arrival of Sordo.
Sauber Bolsters Technical Leadership with Experienced Hire
“As our Technical Departments continue to grow towards our new organization and future ambitions, I am delighted to welcome Stefano to the team as Performance Director,” Key said. “Stefano is a key addition to our team, one which will shape our understanding and priorities for the new cars’ performance direction and in-season development, working closely with myself, as well as our Vehicle Performance, Aerodynamics and Track Engineering groups.”
Sauber Group CEO Andreas Seidl echoed Key’s sentiments, highlighting Sordo’s wealth of experience and his ability to analyze the team’s technical operations and address potential weaknesses.
“The appointment of Stefano is an important step in the development of the structure of our technical department,” Seidl said. “Stefano knows what a winning squad needs, brings a wealth of experience to the team and, with the different array of roles he played in the past, he is perfectly placed to analyse the strengths and weaknesses of our technical operations, and address what is required.”
With Sordo on board, Sauber is poised to harness its technical expertise and transition smoothly into its new era as an Audi works team. Stay tuned for more Formula 1 news and updates on Sauber’s preparations for its 2026 debut.
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