Zoom 2008 saw BMW Sauber's maiden victory in Montreal

BMW Sauber's Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld, along with reserve driver Christian Klien, joined other factory drivers and over 500 guests at the Postpalast venue in central Munich on Saturday evening as the German manufacturer celebrated its year-end party and Sports Trophy presentation.

"This event gives us the opportunity to thank our partners, drivers and associates for their commitment during the 2008 season," explained BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen.

Although the time was taken to pause for the annual party, work continues relentlessly for the team: in F1, the next season begins only days after the previous championship ends.

"The BMW Sauber F1 Team will have little in the way of a winter break - further testing in Jerez is scheduled for December and preparations for 2009 are already in full swing at the factories," the team boss said.

Looking back at 2008, Theissen reflected: "We're proud that we achieved our goals once again in the third year of our Formula One team. We were aiming to record our maiden victory, and we did so with a one-two. Plus, we collected our first pole position and two fastest race laps."

The evening also served as an awards ceremony for the BMW Motorsport programme spanning several racing series.

D.B. © CAPSIS International