BMW choose team name

BMW have confirmed a new name for the Sauber Formula One team after registering it with motor sport’s world governing body the FIA.

The German car giant bought Peter Sauber’s outfit last year and will rename it the BMW Sauber F1 team for 2006.

The retention of Sauber’s name was unexpected but BMW motor sport chief Mario Theissen, who is expected to play a pivotal role in running the new team, believes it appropriate for next season.

“The new team name more or less chose itself,” said Theissen, who convinced BMW to leave Williams and go it alone by buying Sauber.

“It reflects the make-up of the team – run by BMW but with a core of almost 300 Sauber employees. Plus, the 2006 car was developed by Sauber’s proven engineers.”

That paves the way for a total rebrand in 2007, with next season expected to be a difficult one as BMW’s revolution takes shape.

Peter Sauber will remain involved with the team as an advisor and he is happy to see his name remain on the grid for an extra season.

“It’s nice to see that the Sauber name will continue in Formula One,” he said.

“I’m particularly pleased for Sauber’s many loyal fans, who I’m sure will support the team with unbowed enthusiasm in the future.

“The new team’s name is also an expression of the huge respect which BMW has for the employees in Hinwil.”

BMW also confirmed that Sauber’s technical director Willy Rampf will retain his post while his BMW counterpart Heinz Paschen sees his remit extended to include the drive train as well as the engine.

The newly-renamed team will launch their car on January 16 and 17 in Valencia, where it will test for the first time.