Zander appointment ‘a very important step’ - Kaltenborn

Sauber team principal Monisha Kaltenborn says the recent appointment of Jörg Zander as technical director is “a very important step” for the Swiss outfit on its road to recovery.

Sauber confirmed on Monday that Zander will join from Audi Sport and start working at Hinwill in 2017. The 52-year-old will fill a key position that had been left vacant since Mark Smith left the squad ahead of the current Formula One campaign.

With Sauber currently looking down the barrel of a second pointless campaign in three years, Kaltenborn underlines the significance of the team’s latest signing.

“We are honoured that we have convinced such a renowned and experienced technical leader to be part of our team and plans for the future,” she said.

“This is a very important step for the implementation of our strategic goals, in order to guide the team into a new and successful era. Zander fits well into our team, he has a lot of know-how in Formula 1, as well as in motorsport in general.”

The German boasts extensive F1 experience, having previously served at BAR, BMW-Sauber, and Honda. Talking about Zander’s future responsibilities, Kaltenborn added: “As technical director he will have the overview as well as the responsibility for all technical departments.

“In our factory in Hinwil he will have the possibilities to work technically at a very high level. We are convinced we will make progress with him. We wish him a good start on his return to Sauber, for which we ensure him our full support.”

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