Wehrlein: "I'm assuming I'll be in Formula 1 next year"

Pascal Wehrlein has revealed that he is more optimistic about his future in Formula 1. The German's future in the sport is uncertain after Ferrari announced it would be powering Sauber on a long term deal from 2018 onwards.

The Maranello squad admitted that it wanted to shape Sauber into a 'B' team, and fit in junior drivers Antonio Giovinazzi and Charles Leclerc into the squad. With Wehrlein being a Mercedes junior, it appeared that his chances of retaining his seat at Sauber for 2018 are bleak.

However, new developments in Malaysia suggest that Marcus Ericsson, whose backers finance Sauber, could be set aside for Charles Leclerc which would allow an increased chance for Wehrlein to stay at the team: "There is still nothing new," Wehrlein said. "But I think there will be a decision in the next few weeks. This year we will not have to wait as long as last year."

"I think the chances are quite good. But during the season I try to only think about the coming races. Of course I will always be informed when there are new developments. Toto (Wolff) tells me of any important phone calls and of course I always talk with Fred (Vasseur). I'm assuming I'll be in Formula 1 next year," he added.

 

Fergal Walsh

Replies (6)

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  • Assuming such things are dangerous things to do.

    • + 0
    • Sep 29 2017 - 15:30
  • mbmwe36

    Posts: 533

    I wouldn't really miss him. He's come nowhere close to live up to the initial hype, and looks very pedestrian. He does every now and then show flashes of brilliance, but those moments are few and very far between.

    • + 0
    • Sep 29 2017 - 15:37
    • True, but few drivers has, if Im honest. Take a look at Vandoorne (not that the poor sod wanted the hype... thanks, Motor Jurnalizts!").

      • + 0
      • Sep 30 2017 - 09:31
  • Orchide

    Posts: 82

    Nope. He is out. Doubt that Merc want to pay more than for Gio and LEC.

    • + 0
    • Sep 29 2017 - 16:27
  • Savio

    Posts: 145

    There is still another possibility... I hope that Vasseur will fire Ericsson. Lately he suggested this option in interview.

    • + 0
    • Sep 29 2017 - 19:26
    • Orchide

      Posts: 82

      No, he actually said that Sauber was not the team for Ericsson if he wanted to win races. I assume you refer to the german article in Automotorsport...

      • + 0
      • Sep 29 2017 - 22:47

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