Nasr excited to return to scene of ‘fantastic’ F1 debut

Sauber driver Felipe Nasr is raring to kick start his 2016 F1 campaign in Melbourne, a place where he secured a “fantastic” result for his maiden grand prix start 12 months ago.

Following his graduation from GP2 Series, Nasr claimed fifth in the 2015 Australian Grand Prix, withstanding race-long pressure from Daniel Ricciardo’s Red Bull to make it the best-ever debut performance for a Brazilian driver.

“The Australian Grand Prix reminds me of my fantastic result from last year,” he said. “Finishing fifth in my first ever Formula One race is something I will probably never forget. It is nice to come back to Albert Park with these great memories.”

Sauber did not enjoy the smoothest of winters, having only introduced its new C35 at the second test following late tweaks to the 2016 F1 calendar while cash-flow difficulties resulted in delayed payments of staff salaries for February.

Team principal Monisha Kaltenborn quickly moved to dismiss rumours saying the Swiss outfit will not compete in Melbourne’s curtain raiser, and Nasr now hopes to reward Sauber with another strong showing Down Under.

“During testing in Barcelona I had some productive days collecting good mileage in the C35. I feel well prepared to start my second Formula One season. I am curious to see where we stand with the C35 in comparison to the other teams.

“Everyone within the factory in Hinwil has worked really hard, so we deserve a successful start to the 2016 Formula One season.”

TECHNICAL: A closer look at the Sauber C35

F1i Classic: Melbourne 2002 - Mark Webber's dream debut

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