F1 seats are among the most highly-coveted in motorsport, and one of the series’ most historic organisations made a critical error when deciding on their driver line-up
Guido van der Garde did not get to race for Sauber after signing his deal(Image: Alastair Staley/LAT Images)
Everything you need to know about the 2015 Sauber driver line-up controversy, as Felipe Nasr, Marcus Ericsson and Guido van der Garde were all signed for just two open seats.
Sauber’s Crisis: Sauber faced a critical driver crisis ahead of the 2015 Formula 1 season, having signed three drivers for only two available race seats. The team had hired Marcus Ericsson and Felipe Nasr to replace their previous drivers, but failed to account for a contractual obligation to a third driver.
Van der Garde’s nightmare: The third driver at the centre of the conflict was Dutchman Giedo van der Garde, who had served as the team’s test and reserve driver the year before. He alleged that Sauber had guaranteed him a full-time race seat for the upcoming 2015 campaign.
Legal action begins: Feeling unfairly pushed aside, Van der Garde initiated legal proceedings by filing an international arbitration complaint in Swiss courts in December 2014. This action began a stressful legal battle that played out over the winter break.
The court ruling: The legal dispute escalated dramatically just before the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. A national court ultimately ruled in Van der Garde’s favour, confirming his enforceable right to a race seat at the event.
Ready to race: Following the ruling, Van der Garde arrived at the Albert Park Circuit in Australia prepared to race, even appearing in the Sauber garage with his equipment. This created a highly visible and awkward confrontation for the team on the eve of the new season.
Resolution reached: Despite the favourable court ruling, Van der Garde ultimately agreed to waive his right to race at the Australian Grand Prix. This decision was part of a final agreement that included a financial settlement between the driver and the team.
The final line-up: As a result of the settlement, Sauber was able to officially begin the 2015 season with the intended driver pairing of Marcus Ericsson and Felipe Nasr. This resolved the immediate crisis, allowing the team to participate in the opening race without further legal intervention.
Van der Garde’s regret: Van der Garde publicly expressed deep sadness and disappointment over the outcome, noting: “This dream has been taken away from me, and I know that my future in Formula One is probably over.” He added: “The team principal was adamant not to let me drive, notwithstanding my legal rights to do so and a series of rulings and court orders in my favour, and despite my race driving abilities.”