Consequently, he will replace former BMW Sauber F1 technical director Willy Rampf at Hinwil, completing the transition of the Swiss team from the BMW-controlled team to an independent outfit.
“The first time I saw the facilities in Hinwil, I knew straightaway the kind of opportunities open to me there. The wind tunnel, the supercomputer, the machine park and the expertise of the team were extremely persuasive. There is significant potential at Sauber, and with the ever-changing world of F1 I think the team is very well placed at present,” admitted the 38-year old Englishman.
Rampf explained his decision to leave the Swiss team prior to the beginning of the new campaign, saying it was time for him to focus on his personal life.
“When you're technical director of a Formula 1 team, the job comes first and everything else is subordinate to it. I have done my job with a passion for ten years, but now it's time to hand over the baton,” said Rampf, who will work side by side with Key until the month of April, in order to secure a smooth transition in the team's technical department.
While thanking Rampf for his commitment during the past decade at Hinwil, team owner Peter Sauber admitted his excitement over signing Key as new technical director.
“I have known about Willy's plans for some time, of course, and fully understand his decision. He has achieved great things for our team. (...) We have Willy to thank for a great deal,” said Rampf.
“Despite his young age, James looks back on more than a decade of experience in Formula 1 - and the 2009 car in particular proved quite a revelation. James comes from a private team and knows how to work around a limited budget. With us he will enjoy high-level technical opportunities.”
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