Sauber have introduced their third and final special livery of the 2025 season, titled “Final Lap,” for use at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The design will appear on the C45 cars of Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto and serves as a visual conclusion to several chapters in the team’s history. The livery is exclusive to the Las Vegas event and draws inspiration from the atmosphere of the venue while incorporating elements that reflect the team’s identity and direction.
The colour scheme blends the sport’s iconic chequered flag motif with Sauber’s electric green accents. The car features scattered chequered patterns layered over a carbon base, creating a sense of motion even while stationary. Neon green highlights complete the look, giving the car a clear connection to the team’s existing colour palette. The timing of the design is symbolic, as Sauber’s partnership with Stake will end after this season. Advertising restrictions in Qatar and Abu Dhabi may prevent the Stake brand from appearing at the remaining rounds, making Las Vegas the last major showcase for the collaboration.
The livery also marks one of the final milestones for Sauber as an independent name in Formula 1. After more than thirty years on the grid, the team will complete its transition to Audi during the 2026 regulation cycle and compete as a full works outfit. This adds weight to the “Final Lap” concept, reflecting both the end of the current programme and the momentum toward a new era.
Special livery “Final Lap” for the Sauber C45 at the 2025 F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix
Team principal Jonathan Wheatley described the livery as a statement that connects the team’s past efforts with its upcoming transformation. He said that the design reflects the energy of Las Vegas and highlights the team’s desire to finish the season with clarity and purpose. Wheatley noted that it recognises the achievements from Hinwil’s factory and the progress made on track during the partnership with Stake. He framed the livery as an appropriate way to express the team’s closing chapter before its full integration with Audi.
The debut of the “Final Lap” livery strengthens the narrative of transition around Sauber as the season nears its conclusion. It offers the team a final opportunity to showcase its identity before entering a new competitive phase in 2026.
