- Sauber
Sutil signs deal with Sauber
Adrian Sutil has signed a deal to drive for Sauber in 2014 in what is effectively a straight swap with Nico Hulkenberg.
Hulkenberg re-signed for Force India last week, and with Sergio Perez announced as the team's second driver yesterday it left Sutil and Paul di Resta to look elsewhere. Sutil has taken little time to finalise his future, being confirmed at Sauber in a decision which sees him move teams for the first time in Formula One having previously only driven for Force India under its previous guises of Spyker and Midland.
Sutil said he had "known for a while" where he wanted to drive but that "negotiations took a bit longer than planned".
"I am very happy that we found common ground," Sutil said. "I've been in contact with Monisha for a while and she always gave me the feeling my qualities are valued. After six good years driving for Force India, with a lot of highlights, it's now time to embark on a new challenge.
"I am determined to do my part in order to have a successful future together with the Sauber F1 Team. The long and successful tradition in motorsport, combined with an impressive factory and one of the best wind tunnels in F1, have been fascinating me for a long time. Thank you to Peter Sauber and Monisha Kaltenborn for your trust in me."
Team principal Kaltenborn said Sutil had been a long-term target for the team.
"We are pleased, that we were able to sign Adrian, particularly as we have been wanting to work together with him for a while," she said. "Adrian had already visited the factory at the end of September to have a look at the infrastructure. Adrian is not only very fast, but also brings a lot of experience, which is very important looking at the new regulations for next year. We welcome Adrian to the Sauber F1 Team and look forward to a successful collaboration."
The team added: "The second driver for the 2014 season will be announced at a later date."
We want to wish @SutilAdrian the best for his new adventure at @OfficialSF1Team! #SuperSutil
— Sahara Force India (@clubforce) December 13, 2013© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
