Ericsson seeking better luck in Bahrain's desert

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Sauber's Marcus Ericsson has struggled since the season got underway, with a retirement in Australia and a drive to a distant place out of the points in China.

While much of everyone's attention at Sauber has been focused on Pascal Wehrlein's difficulties or the impressive than disappointing performance of substitute Antonio Giovinazzi, Ericsson has been doing his best in the background.

Cool temperatures and a diverse set of dodgy conditions in Shanghai forced the Swede to drop away from the rest of the field and finish a lackluster fifteenth.

"The conditions were tricky as well as the asphalt temperatures being relatively low, which made it difficult to get the tyres to work,” said Ericsson.

"Overall, I struggled with the tyres during the whole race – I never really got them into the right working window."

Wehrlein back in the Sauber saddle for Bahrain!

The Sauber driver will be looking for a better environment in Bahrain's desert, where heat and dry conditions are at least guaranteed.

Thinking about Bahrain, I am eager for the first night race of the season,” said Ericsson.

“The track, as well as the surroundings, have a special vibe under the floodlights. It is a spectacular race weekend that I enjoy a lot.

“Overall the circuit is technical and driving-wise not an easy one, but I always looking forward to racing there."

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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.