Marcus Ericsson understands Sauber's decision to part with his services for 2019, but the Swede admits his exit was still "hard to admit".
On the back of a season in which it has enjoyed massive progress in F1's mid-field, Sauber has gone for a blend of world champion experience and rookie talent for 2019, with Kimi Raikkonen and Antonio Giovinazzi.
The Swiss outfit felt compelled to snap up the Finn following his departure from Ferrari, a move which in turn put an end to Ericsson's hopes of racing with Sauber for a fifth consecutive season.
"Of course, it was hard to accept," said the 28-year-old who will head west next year to America's IndyCar series.
"I thought I was going to stay but obviously I understand the reasons as well, with a driver like Kimi becoming available, and the other seat is obviously taken [by Ferrari].
"To get an opportunity to get a driver like Kimi, it's impossible to not take that opportunity. So I understand that, even though it's obviously disappointing for me and my career.
"I feel like I've been here, working so hard for the team in very tough times, and the car has been at the bottom, and people have been leaving the team, and I've been always putting all effort into trying to turn it around, staying positive and never blaming the team for anything."
The hard work has paid off, at least for the team, but Ericsson's performance has also improved with the Swede achieving six point-scoring results this season. And he's determined to make it three top-ten finishes in a row this weekend in Brazil.
"I am motivated to finish the season on a high and will do the best job possible," he said in the team's preview.
"We are arriving in Brazil with a good feeling after a strong weekend in Mexico, where we finished with both cars in Q3 and the points.
"Our confidence is high and we will fight hard to keep this form. The track in São Paolo is a classic. I have been there a few times now, and it is always fun to drive."
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