Sauber scrap Malaysia launch

Formula One team Sauber have scrapped plans to launch their 2005 car in Kuala Lumpur.

The Switzerland-based team were due to unveil their new car in the Malaysian capital, home city of title sponsors Petronas, but have cancelled the launch following the tsunami which hit south Asia over the Christmas period.

With over 100,000 people dead, Sauber felt a launch in Malaysia so soon after the country suffered thousands of losses was inappropriate.

A statement read: “The launch of the Sauber Petronas C24 that was scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur on January 11 has been cancelled.

“The launch had been planned as part of activities designed to celebrate Petronas’ 10-year presence in Formula One.

“As a mark of respect to the victims of the disaster in south east Asia and their families, it was decided to cancel the launch.”

No replacement date or venue for Sauber’s launch has yet been announced.