After 36 years, the time of a real Formula 1 legend who was never really in the spotlight is coming to an end: Physiotherapist Josef Leberer is calling it quits and will be the new ambassador for Sauber Motorsport from January 1, 2024.
The Austrian is well known to everyone in the Formula 1 paddock and has been an institution in the premier class since 1988. Leberer worked with the big names in the sport: Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, Mika Häkkinen, Kimi Räikkönen, Sebastian Vettel – and after the season finale in Abu Dhabi, an era comes to an end.
“Formula 1 has been my life for 36 years and Sauber has been my home for 27 years,” says Leberer. “I have experienced a lot with the team and am looking forward to this new chapter in my relationship with the team – and in my life.”
“As a Sauber Motorsport ambassador, I hope I can show the passion that has driven me throughout my career and bring to life the incredible stories I have witnessed over so many years in Formula 1.”
This is what Leberer’s new role looks like
In his new role as ambassador, Leberer will, among other things, be the face of campaigns “highlighting Sauber’s heritage and legacy as the team moves towards its future,” the team said.
With his experience and intimate knowledge, the Austrian will provide “a unique insight into Formula 1 over the decades, into the work with its biggest stars and into the human performance of the drivers and crew.”
Sauber shares: “As a man with a million stories, Leberer will make his expertise available to team partners and fans to provide an insight into our sport and offer something like a time capsule of bygone eras – for years to come.”
Leberer: “I want to show what this sport is really about and hopefully inspire new generations of fans to get involved in a sport that has meant and still means everything to me.”
Alunni Bravi: “Legend of Sport”
Leberer came to Formula 1 in 1988 and, as Ayrton Senna’s physiotherapist, whom he accompanied until 1994, played a part in the dominant McLaren era and the Brazilian’s three world championship titles. In 1997 he moved to Sauber in Hinwil, where he continues to work on the physical and mental fitness of the drivers to this day.
“Josef is a legend of the sport, an example of commitment and expertise that has lasted more than three decades in Formula 1 – one of the figures our sport should celebrate,” emphasizes team representative Alessandro Alunni Bravi.
“He is more than just a coach, he has been involved in some of motorsport’s most historic moments and embodies the legacy and heritage of Formula 1.”
“In his role and through his personal style, Josef has never been one to seek public attention: however, such a wealth of knowledge deserves to be shared with the world and I hope that he will take advantage of his new role as Sauber Motorsport ambassador to bring these stories to light and share them with our partners and fans.”