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Sauber rejects criticism of 2012 unpredictability

Lewis Hamilton became the seventh different winner this season in Canada, while Sergio Perez finished on the podium for the second time © Sutton Images

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• Drivers:
• Peter Sauber

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Peter Sauber says that Formula One has "never been better or more exciting" amid fears that the current unpredictability could be detrimental to the sport.

After Mark Webber admitted that fans could lose interest due to a lack of rivalries, Jenson Button also voiced his concerns that almost anybody could win a race ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix. Sauber, however, has benefited from the open season with two podiums so far this year, the second of which was scored by Sergio Perez last weekend in Montreal.

"As far as I can see it's just a handful of people in the paddock who can't get used to not knowing by Friday who's going to win on Sunday," Sauber said. "I think the fans see it in a completely different light. They're delighted with the unpredictability, the sheer variety and the unbelievably close competition. I've been in Formula One for 20 years now and for me it's never been better or more exciting. That's partly down to Pirelli, who are supplying the tyres for this show."

Sauber also added that the close nature of the season would not have to come to an end, as long as Sauber and the other midfield teams could ensure that all of their car developments proved effective.

"Of course the four big teams have very different financial possibilities compared to the private teams in the middle of the pack. But that doesn't in any way discourage us. Our forte is efficiency. The development package that was given its first airing in Barcelona showed what we are capable of. The crucial thing is that the C31 gives us an excellent foundation with real potential for further development."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.