Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsSauber

Ericsson motivated by Sauber's future plans

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Prior to the Hungarian Grand Prix, Sauber extended the contracts of both Felipe Nasr and Marcus Ericsson for 2016.

The Swedish driver was enticed to prolong his career with the Swiss outfit when informed of Sauber's bold plans for 2016, and the confidence they have instilled.

“Straight after Silverstone we sat down to come up with a plan for the rest of the year and briefly talk about next year's car,” Ericsson said.

“We've put quite a bit of trust in the developments coming now and at the end of year and hopefully that can put us in the right direction for next season. It feels like there is a lot going on for next year so that made the decision for me to stay here very easy.”

The former Caterham driver had a lackluster maiden season in F1 with the British outfit in 2014, but this season has seen him mature and refine his talent while scoring points in Australia, China and Hungary.

While Ericsson has put his trust and F1 future firmly in Sauber'shands, the 24-year-old remains a realist and conscious that any stepped-up effort will also depend on the Hinwill-based squad's financial means.

“I don't know yet but it will come down to how much money we can have on development, which is not decided yet.”

Click here for F1i's report on how each driver performed in the first ten races of the 2015 season

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.