Whitley: We want to score points thanks to the efficiency of the C45.

      After decent results shown by Sauber’s drivers at four of the previous five rounds, the Swiss team expects to score points in Baku as well. Of course, Sauber understands that the street circuit in the Azerbaijani capital presents its own difficult challenges, and the objectives are clear: to continue showing progress and to remain competitive.

      Jonathan Whitley, team principal: “In Monza we returned to the top ten, and that boosted overall morale. We have been focused both on the quality of our work and on achieving consistency — and we can see the results on track.

      There is very fierce competition in the mid-field, and it’s a real shame that Nico couldn’t start the race then. Back at the team’s base, we made every effort to understand the cause of the technical issue and to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

      The Baku circuit is an interesting combination of street sections that require refined driving technique and high-speed stretches where overtaking is possible. As in all our recent races, we want to be in the thick of the battle to score points primarily through the car’s performance, but we also need to take advantage of any opportunities that arise.”

      Nico Hülkenberg: “What happened on Sunday in Monza should, of course, be forgotten as soon as possible. But the team is working to get to the bottom of the problem and find a comprehensive solution.

      On the positive side, our car has shown good pace, which is encouraging and gives confidence ahead of the Baku weekend. Races on street circuits come with particular challenges: they require precise driving, the ability to act correctly in traffic, and to make the most of any opportunities.

      The challenges that await us there differ from those we face on regular tracks, but if we get everything right from Friday, we’ll have a chance to score points and to perform confidently this weekend.”

      Gabriel Bortoleto: “In Monza we returned to the top ten, and that’s pleasing, as it’s another confirmation that we’re doing our job well. But the Baku City Circuit is a completely different type of track, and I only raced there last year in different machinery.

      In preparation for the weekend I have been working on the simulator and I am confident both in our car and in the team, because we are all working hard to achieve further improvements. As always, our aim is to pull everything together and work consistently from Friday — I hope this approach will once again allow us to finish in the top ten.”