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Sauber driver Marcus Ericsson believes that new team mate Pascal Wehrlein is a great addition to the team.
Wehrlein joins Sauber from Manor after a year which saw him miss out on a Force India and Mercedes seat despite scoring Manor's only point of the season.
Ericsson however thinks that the two of them can push the team further up the field in 2017.
"I think it's great news for me and Sauber," he said. "Pascal is a very fast and respected driver with a great CV. I think we can really push each other and the team forward, so I am looking forward to a great season."
"I honestly rate him highly. He's won the DTM championship and been part of the Mercedes family for a long time, so they seem to believe a lot in him. Of course my aim is to beat him - what else - and I expect it to be a tough fight. But that's exactly what I need in order to perform at my best."
Sauber struggled for much of the 2016 season, however they snatched two points in the hectic Brazlian Grand Prix allowing them to jump Manor and finish tenth in the constructors championship.
The Swede stated that financial stability makes him think that Sauber can make inroads on the teams ahead of them.
"I think the financial stability we now have in the team makes a big difference already. There have been some great people joining the team lately that will make a difference. But also everyone in the team now is so motivated with this fresh start."
"Instead of focusing on surviving, everyone is now pushing 100 percent on finding performance. That surely will make a big difference."
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Replies (3)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Ericsson is a nice guy, but I think he'll have little to no chance of beating his new team mate.
Bhurt
Posts: 320
I disagree. I think he has a shot at beating Wehrlein, and if he does that will go a long way towards increasing his own reputation even more. Great opportunity for Ericsson here.
If Wehrlein comes into Sauber and is soundly beaten by Ericsson, where does that leave Wehrlein in the eyes of Mercedes? Big pressure on the young man to perform.
However if Manor doesn't show up, the Ericsson vs Wehrlein battle will most likely take place at the very back of the grid.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Yeah, beating Wehrlein would definitely place Ericsson in the spotlight, but I dont think he is good enough. And I agree: Sauber will likely be at the back of the grid, though how far back Im not sure.