The first fruits of the new partnership between Alfa Romeo and Sauber have been revealed with the launch of the team’s C37 ahead of the 2018 Formula 1 season.

It is the first car to bear the Alfa Romeo name in F1 for more than 30 years with a new Ferrari power unit on board, rather than the year-old engines Sauber has been using in recent seasons.

Livery-wise, it follows the lead of the concept revealed in December.

The team will be led by reigning GP2 champion and Ferrari protégé Charles Leclerc and Marcus Ericsson, who remains for a fourth season with Sauber.

It is the first Sauber under the guidance of managing director Frédéric Vasseur, who said: “We have put lots of effort and hard work into the C37 over the last few months. I am convinced that Marcus and Charles form the perfect driver line-up, with one being an experienced driver and one a promising rookie. Marcus is a valuable part of the team, and we benefit from his experience and precise technical feedback. As for Charles, he has proven his talent in prior categories and deserves to be on the Formula 1 grid this season.

“Our target ahead of 2018 is clear: we have to catch up with the field and continue improving our performance during the course of the season. We have put lots of energy and commitment into the development of the C37. We are eager to start the 2018 season as the Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team.”