Sauber appears to be on course to register its second Formula 1 season without a point, as 2024 has been hindered by a lack of development and pitstop problems. Will it go down as the ‘best’ car never to score, or is there a more suitable contender? We consider the evidence…with a surprise conclusion

Should 2024’s Formula 1 season close out with the current formbook, then Sauber looks set to become the first team to register a scoreless year since Haas hit rock bottom in 2021. The contemporary effects of the cost cap and aerodynamic testing restrictions have brought the field closer together in modern times; even though the top four teams have a gaping chasm between them and the rest of the field, the minor points placings are hotly contested.

And it can’t be forgotten that the brace of neon-green and carbon-grey Sauber C44s angled for minor points in the opening races, but pitstop mishaps rather denied Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu the opportunity to sneak a couple of points early doors. Since then, other teams have progressed; Sauber, for whatever reason, has not.

In the world of Formula 1, where performance is paramount and results are king, the term “point-less car” typically conjures images of underwhelming performance and missed opportunities. However, when discussing the Sauber C44, it’s essential to approach the conversation with nuance. While it may not have scored points in the 2022 season, its design, potential, and the story behind its development raise intriguing questions about its place in the annals of F1 history.

The Sauber C44 was designed under the new regulations introduced in 2022, which marked a significant shift in the aerodynamic philosophies of F1. These regulations aimed to promote closer racing and increased overtaking opportunities, leading to a new era of competition among teams. Sauber, historically known for its engineering prowess and ability to punch above its weight, was expected to leverage its experience and create a competitive package.

However, the C44’s on-track performance did not match the high expectations. Throughout the season, the car struggled with consistency, often appearing to be off the pace compared to its rivals. This resulted in a series of frustrating races, with neither driver managing to secure any championship points. The car’s lack of competitiveness led to discussions about whether it could be classified as the best point-less car in F1 history.

When evaluating the Sauber C44, it’s vital to consider several factors that contribute to its performance. First, the development timeline was hampered by a lack of resources compared to larger teams. With the increased costs of research and development in the sport, teams like Mercedes and Red Bull have significant advantages that can overshadow the efforts of smaller outfits like Sauber. Additionally, the team’s transition from being a privateer to operating under the Alfa Romeo brand presented its own set of challenges, as management sought to balance financial viability with competitive aspirations.

The C44’s design philosophy also played a role in its performance. Sauber has a reputation for innovative engineering, and the C44 was no exception. The team focused on optimizing aerodynamics to enhance downforce and improve cornering speeds. However, the implementation of these design concepts faced hurdles, resulting in a car that could not capitalize on its potential during race weekends.

Comparatively, other point-less cars in F1 history offer compelling narratives that deserve mention. The 2014 Caterham CT05, for example, was notable for its distinct aerodynamic features and was developed during a period of drastic rule changes. Despite showcasing technical innovation, it ultimately failed to secure any points due to both reliability issues and a lack of performance.

Similarly, the 2021 Williams FW43B had its own challenges, enduring a long-standing struggle for competitiveness. However, as the season progressed, the team made strides that culminated in a few points-scoring finishes. This improvement highlighted the Williams team’s resilience, suggesting that even point-less cars can evolve into competitive machines.

Additionally, the 2009 Honda RA109, while initially a disappointing car, underwent significant changes that led to Jenson Button’s victory in the subsequent season. This transformation underscores the potential for point-less cars to become successful through development and adaptability.

Despite these examples, the Sauber C44 remains unique in its narrative. It embodies the struggles of a small team operating in the high-stakes environment of F1, striving to balance performance with financial constraints. Its story is representative of the broader challenges faced by teams outside the top three—Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari—that dominate the grid.

Looking forward, Sauber’s management is determined to learn from the shortcomings of the C44 and has already begun to shift focus toward the 2023 season. With the development of the C45 underway, the team aims to leverage lessons learned to improve performance and regain competitiveness. The commitment to growth is a testament to Sauber’s resilience and a belief that the right direction can yield positive results.

In conclusion, while the Sauber C44 may go down in history as a point-less car, its design and engineering narrative cannot be overlooked. As discussions around the “best point-less car” continue, it’s essential to recognize the context in which these machines operate. The challenges faced by Sauber reflect the complexities of F1, where innovation meets competition. While there are indeed other contenders in the realm of point-less cars, the C44 stands as a symbol of determination and innovation within the sport, making it a noteworthy entry in the storied history of Formula 1. Ultimately, its legacy will be shaped not only by its performance but also by the future achievements that arise from the lessons learned during its development.