To my devoted followers, the entire racing community, and the amazing Sauber Motorsport AG family,
I am overcome with appreciation when I pause to think back on my experience in Formula 1. I’ve received so much from the sport: lifelong memories, lessons that have molded me as a person and a driver, and a global network of ardent supporters who have stood by me through thick and thin. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed significantly to my career, starting with Sauber Motorsport AG.
Sauber took a chance on me when I joined Formula 1 in 2001 as a young, little-known driver. Many people questioned if I was prepared because I had only competed in 23 single-seater races. However, when few others did, Peter Sauber and the team saw something in me and had faith in my abilities. My life was irrevocably altered by that trust.
I was able to study, develop, and establish myself in Formula 1 thanks to Sauber. I first witnessed the unwavering devotion and passion that characterize our sport during those formative years at Hinwil. My growth as a Grand Prix driver was aided by the team’s encouragement and the diligence of each engineer, technician, and strategist.
The knowledge I gained at Sauber remained with me even after I switched teams. They influenced my racing style, which is composed under duress, performance-oriented, and always lets my driving speak for itself.
The Real Heart of Racing: To the Fans
You have been my biggest supporters over the years. You supported me regardless of whether I was racing for McLaren, Ferrari, Lotus, Alfa Romeo, or Sauber. Your fervent faith, your cries of “Iceman,” and your admiration for my direct approach meant the world to me.
Even though racing is a tough and punishing sport, the voyage was made even more memorable by the knowledge that I had millions of supporters worldwide. Your support remained constant through both the happy times (such winning the 2007 World Championship) and the bad. I believe my performances on track spoke for me, even if you knew I was never one for grandiose remarks or theatrical gestures.
My Second Home: The Racing Community
Formula One is more than a sport; it is a family. I’d like to express my gratitude to my fellow drivers, team leaders, engineers, and everyone who works tirelessly behind the scenes. You helped make my time in Formula One a wonderful one. The rivalry was tough, the rivalries were passionate, but at the heart of it all was a common love of racing.
Even after leaving F1, my interest in motorsport has remained strong. Racing is in my blood, and while I may no longer be on the grid, I will always be a part of this wonderful community.
A Final Thought
Thank you, Sauber, for making Formula One possible for me. Thank you, fans, for always believing in me. And to the entire racing community, thank you for the memories, struggles, and the opportunity to compete at the greatest level.
I’ve always been a man of few words, but when it comes to my thanks, I can’t keep quiet.See you around the track.
