Sauber's Marcus Ericsson admits that he can't wait to get the new Formula 1 world championship underway.
Ericsson has been kept busy training for the start of the new season. But with actual time in the car limited to the two pre-season tests in Spain, he's keen to get back in action for real.
"I can’t wait to finally kick off the 2017 Formula 1 season in Australia," said the Swede.
"After challenging pre-season testing with a lot of data collection and preparation, I am going to Melbourne with a positive mindset."
All the teams are grappling with new tyre and downforce regulations which leaves them heading into the unknown in the first Grand Prix of the year.
"We have to see how things work out during the first race weekend with the new car," he said. "The Albert Park circuit is a bit tricky with a mix of permanent race track and a street circuit.
"I think it is going to be a challenge to find the right set-up, but I am confident we will get this done.”
Like most of the drivers on the grid, Ericsson happy to be starting the season down under and is a big fan of the venue.
“I like Melbourne a lot as it is a fantastic place," he said. "The fans and the atmosphere there are just great
"I always enjoy being downtown in Melbourne and on the circuit at Albert Park."
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