Sauber buys back BMW F1 team

Though still not confirmed on the 2010 grid, the future looks brighter today for the folks at the former BMW F1 team.

BMW announced on Friday that it has provisionally sold the team back to Peter Sauber, contingent on getting a spot in 2010. Given that the questionable financing of the previous deal was the big sticking point, that seems more likely to happen now, although there also were arguments that 14 teams is too many to run in F1.

At this point, Toyota has solved that problem.

As I’ve noted before, the coding of the team’s web site does not allow for easy copying, so check here for the details.

Here’s Sauber’s happy reaction:

“I’m very relieved that we have found this solution. It means we can keep the Hinwil location and the majority of workplaces.

“I am convinced that the new team has a very good future in F1, whose current transformation with new framework conditions will benefit the private teams.”

Two things to note, as I’m sure our eagle-eyed readers already have caught: One, of course, is the great news that Sauber is back in charge. The second is his statement about how F1 is becoming a better environment for private teams. McLaren certainly has gone that route, although Brawn — now Mercedes GP — has gone the other. The “maunfacturer” issue — and resulting tension — remains one to watch.

A few other quick facts on this deal. The release notes that personnel cuts will drop employee numbers from about 388 to 250. And it says very specifically that the Qadbak deal is off.

No word on what engine the team might run but one could safely presume that the current BMW F1 engine deparment is part of the deal and will be a terrific launching point as it is rumored to be one of the best on the grid.

Having Peter Sauber back in charge is a great addition to the 2010 grid and it must be said that he has a terrific engine and base to build on. It also could bode well for Christian Klien as he was rumored to be inline for a seat at the Hinwill team should they secure funding and reach the grid. IT might also bode well for Nick Heidfeld ho has been a staple item of the Sauber empire for many years.

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