Ericsson looking at Sauber and 'other alternatives' for 2017

Marcus Ericsson has described Sauber’s takeover by Longbow Finance as “great news”, but the Swede admits he is also “looking at other alternatives” for the 2017 season.

Sauber announced a change of ownership on Wednesday, which saw the Hinwill-based outfit’s Formula One future being secured following fresh investment from the Swiss finance group.

“I think it’s great news for the team,” Ericsson told reporters during Thursday’s FIA press conference ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix. “It’s no secret that it’s been a difficult year for us in Sauber, financially mainly.

“We have not been able to update the car the way we wanted and have been fighting in the back. For the team, it’s very very important that it’s happened and it’s great news.

“As for my future… I’m looking at Sauber because I really like the way how it’s working here, hopefully now with a new owner we can improve as a team but I’m also looking at other alternatives. Let’s see.”

There has already been speculation linking Sauber’s new owners Longbow to Ericsson’s backers, but the Swede remained tight-lipped when asked to comment on the topic.

“I’ve seen that as well. It’s not something I know about. I’m not involved in this kind of things anyway so I really don’t know to be honest.

“It’s important that the team has a new owner, but who they are and what they are it’s not something I’m involved with.

“I’m contracted as a racing driver and my job is to drive the car as fast possible on the racetrack, to work with my engineers, to work with the guys on the aero.

“Who owns the team and who is putting money in the team and all this kind of stuff, I think it’s not my job, it’s just simple as that.”

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