Ericsson: eyeing Force India while expecting more pace from Sauber

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Marcus Ericsson enjoyed some good momentum in Austin last weekend, running as high as 11th at one point, and the Swede is hoping for more of the same at the Mexican Grand Prix.

Ericsson was running just outside the points with ten laps to go in the US Grand Prix but fell back a few spots in the closing stages of the race to cross the line 14th.

Sauber's drivers have seen progress of late which has elevated their relative performance level, but Ericsson believes more must be extracted from the C35 chassis in order to aim for a top ten finish.

"Looking back to the previous race weekends, we clearly made steps in the right direction, but we still need to find more pace in order to fight for points," said the Swede.

Ericsson enjoyed a solid run to 12th in Mexico in 2015, and just like his colleagues, the Swede was highly impressed with the fervent and electrifying atmosphere at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, and is expecting the same impassioned ambience this weekend.

"I remember the atmosphere at the track and especially driving through the section from Turn 12 to Turn 16, which made us feel like we were in a football stadium.

"The Mexicans gave us a warm welcome last season, and I am sure they will do so this year as well."

On the subject of his future, like a few other of his rivals on the grid, starting with his team mate Felipe Nasr, Ericsson admitted that he was also looking at Force India's current vacant seat, although remaining at Sauber appears to be the most likely prospect for the 26-year-old.

"It does open up another possibility with Force India. It’s a good seat,” Ericsson told Autosport.

"I still think it’s most likely I’ll stay with Sauber, but like I’ve said, I want to be in the best team possible, and Force India seem to be really strong at the moment. It’s a great midfield car, and that’s what I need for next year.

"We are looking at it. It would be stupid not to because we haven’t signed a contract for next year, and now with the Force India seat opened up, we need to see what possibilities are there."

TECHNICAL SNAPSHOT: Austin

Scene at the United States Grand Prix

2016 USGP - Quotes of the week

2017 driver line-ups so far

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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.