The start of the European season in Formula One also frequently marks the start of the in-season developmental arms race, where updates begin popping up throughout the paddock.

Sauber will be among those bringing a different element to Barcelona next week. Head of track engineering Tom McCullough confirmed a revised rear wing will make its debut on the C32, as the team looks to improve the car’s rear end stability.

“We have some further aero updates, including a modified rear wing, and we will be evaluating these during Friday practice,” he said. “Qualifying is particularly important here as overtaking can be difficult in the race.”

Rookie Esteban Gutierrez needs a big weekend at the Circuit de Catalunya, as team principal Monisha Kaltenborn has told him to raise his game.

“The first time I raced in Barcelona was in 2008,” Gutierrez said. “I know the track and during the winter tests I was also able to experience driving a Formula One car there. As the first of a series of European races, I think it is going to be an exciting event and I’m looking forward to that.”