On the back of Sauber extending its engine partnership with Ferrari, Sergio Marchionne sees the Swiss outfit as the de facto training ground for the Scuderia's young talent.
Antonio Giovinazzi and Charles Lerclerc, the most prominent members of Ferrari's young driver program, are both targeting a move up to F1 next season, and Sauber could provide an opportunity for at least one of the youngsters.
"The engines for Sauber are a way to create a kind of junior team for our young drivers," Marchionne said in Hungary.
"We have two great young talents, but to secure the future of Ferrari, we need the chance to train them somewhere.
"We need space for them, so it's a great idea and we're working on it," Marchionne added.
"Maurizio Arrivabene has worked hard on this project, and I want to say also that in agreement with Liberty Media we will also increase the number of customers for our engines."
Marchionne also praised the work done lately by Giovinazzi. The Italian enjoyed free practice outings with Haas at Silverstone and in Hungary, but also devoted himself to simulator work at Fiorano Friday evening.
"They tell me Giovinazzi did a great job for us, driving here (for Haas) on Friday and then on Friday night returning to be in the simulator," said Marchionne.
"He worked late to make sure there was no mistake in balancing the car. He's back here (in Hungary) with us now and I see that quite rightly he is tired," he smiled.
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