Theissen beefs up BMW challenge
Mario Theissen has revealed his plans to double Sauber’s workforce as BMW chase the Formula One success he claims Williams could never deliver.
Theissen, BMW’s motorsport director, was instrumental in the German car giant’s split from long-time partners Williams this season and their buy-out of Sauber.
BMW had grown frustrated at a relative lack of success despite considerable investment from them into a team who are among the most successful in Formula One history.
Now Theissen has revealed his view that Williams were unlikely to improve even if the link-up with BMW had continued, claiming: “Extending the partnership into the future would not have made us any faster.”
He added: “Over these six years, both sides have learned a lot and benefited a great deal from one another. Both partners are stronger today than at the start of our joint venture.
“For four years we exceeded our targets and in 2003 we were in the running for the world championship title right up to the final race. But instead of making the crucial step forward, in 2004 and 2005 we lost touch with the leaders.
“Our sixth season since BMW’s return to Formula One in 2000 has also been the most challenging. Obviously, BMW and Williams are not satisfied with fifth place in the constructors’ championship.”
Theissen is concentrating his efforts on major changes to the Sauber team, who will be rebranded after BMW’s takeover.
He plans to more than double the team’s 300-strong workforce, with 300 current BMW staff joining the ranks and another 100 to be recruited.
BMW have targeted Sauber’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel as a key asset to be exploited.
Theissen added: “Reinforcements for the aerodynamics department in Hinwil are the top priority. We are looking to use the outstanding wind tunnel as frequently as possible, as soon as possible.”
