While widely expected, Sauber's switch to Honda power still yields more questions than answers given the Japanese engine's appalling state of affairs.
While Sauber boss Monisha Kaltenborn understands the reservations and negative perceptions, she also insists that past and present performance is not indicative of future results.
"Nobody knows what is going to be the future," Kaltenborn told Motorsport.com.
"We are absolutely confident that Honda will make improvements and sort out their issues. We are convinced that it is going to happen.
"We were in a similar situation in 2014 where there was big difference in the competitiveness of the engine, but that was no reason for us to start questioning or criticising because we knew Ferrari was doing everything they could, and they did.
"These things happen. Nobody knows what is going to be in six months and we just feel that from the overall opportunities that we have there, it strengthens or fits more into the way we want to go."
Sauber is obviously banking on the future and Honda's recovery. A bet which could prove to be a shrewd move if indeed the sun rises once again on the Japanese manufacturer's prospects.
"We will see,” added Kaltenborn.
"It is far too early to say that, in these kind of partnerships as we have also done in the past, you discuss drivers with your partner and you take advice of theirs on board.
"At the end of the day it is the team’s responsibility, so this is how it will also be there. We have just started so it is too early to say there."
Gallery: All the action from Saturday in Sochi
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