Ericsson aims for return to F1 starter

Marcus Ericsson is not done with the Formula 1. He himself said this two days after the announcement of the tenure of Antonio Giovinazzi alongside Kimi Räikkönen for the 2019 campaign.

As a consolation prize, the Swede, protégé of the current owner of the Swiss team Finn Rausing, was appointed Hinwill reserve and brand ambassador Alfa Romeo, partner of Sauber since the end of 2017. 

« It's obviously disappointing not to ride in competition, declared the 28-year-old driver at an FIA press conference in Sochi. That's the only thing that matters: car racing. This is not good news for my career. However, I am happy to extend my relationship with the team and we will see what the future holds. 

I want to drive so I'm studying different options that go in that direction. I'm looking to see which championship I could play in but it's still a little early to talk about it. The announcement is still fresh so I need to take the time to digest all of this. Of course I would like to stay in F1. My goal is to come back as a starter. It probably won't happen in 2019 but I hope opportunities will present themselves afterwards ». 

Ericsson learned the news of his non-renewal of contract quite recently, which didn't really give him time to bounce back in a team looking for new money like Williams for example.

« When Kimi signed, I knew things weren't looking good for me, added the Kumla native. I had a little hope and then I was informed of Antonio's arrival last weekend. My management activated a few avenues but we ultimately decided to continue the adventure with Sauber because we believe that the relationship built over the years is important. ». 

Since making his F1 debut with Caterham in 2014, Ericsson has 91 career starts heading into this weekend's Sochi Grand Prix for a total of 15 points. His best result remains 8th place acquired at the 2015 Australian GP.