$200 Million-Worth Giant’s Surprising F1 Lay Off Attracts Former Ferrari Driver, Making Fun of the Shocking New Entry

In a surprising twist, Alfa Romeo, the iconic automotive brand, has dropped a bombshell on the Formula 1 community. It recently announced its departure from the sport, ending a six-year partnership with Sauber Motorsport, running under the leadership of Peter Sauber and his wealth of $200 million. From the 2024 season, the team will be called Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, with its title sponsors being Stake and Kick.com.

Naturally, this has led to a lot of banter on X. Renowned journalist Will Buxton created a Bingo of sorts with cheeky wordplay that the commentary team can use while talking about the Stake team in the 2024 season. And what do you know? A former Ferrari test driver joined the fun. Who was it? Callum Ilott.

Formula 1 and the FIA recently announced the confirmation of the drivers and teams that are set to take part in the 2024 season. The only notable difference in this roster was the name change from Alfa Romeo to Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber. Will Buxton immediately published this roster, along with witty wordplay, some of which might just feature in the commentary of David Croft next season.

Buxton reposted the picture of FIA’s entry list, writing, “Commentator bingo early entries. “X is in the middle of a stake sandwich,” “The stakes have never been higher,” “Staking his claim…” And it’s well done for this particular stake.” We have to say, they’re quite ‘punny.’ But what was even ‘punnier’ and equally funny was former Ferrari test driver Callum Ilott’s response to Buxton’s tweet. He just couldn’t resist making a joke, employing some witty wordplay of his own. “I’m getting a Kick out of these Stake Jokes.” 

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With 2024 in sight, the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber (formerly Alfa Romeo) would want to have a more positive campaign than its recent ones. The team hasn’t performed very well for quite some time now. Despite that, however, there is one thing that’s for sure. It’s left an indelible mark in the history of the sport.

Alfa Romeo’s legacy

Reflecting on the end of an era, Alfa Romeo CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato stated, “When you close such an important chapter in the history of a brand, it’s time to take stock.” Imparato emphasized the positive international visibility and profound human and sporting experiences gained during the F1 venture. Some fans even took this as a hint at a potential return when conditions are favorable.

Despite Alfa Romeo’s ninth-place position in the Constructors’ Championship, its departure is more than just a numerical statistic. From its early successes with racing legends like Nino Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio to its role as an engine supplier and constructor, Alfa Romeo has left an indelible mark on Formula 1. The layoff marks the end of an era, not just in terms of a partnership but as the closing of a significant chapter in the rich history of the sport.

With Alfa Romeo’s exit, now the team is reliant on Peter Sauber’s connections and their sponsors, including the title sponsors Stake and Kick.com, to fund its F1 efforts. However, this, too, will be a temporary name, as Audi is all set to take over Sauber by the 2026 season.

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