Ericsson vows to keep fighting

It was announced on Tuesday that Marcus Ericsson would be losing his Sauber seat for the 2019 season, being replaced by Ferrari reserve driver Antonio Giovinazzi.

The Swedish driver made his F1 debut for Caterham in 2014 before moving to Sauber, where he has spent four seasons, although rarely troubling the points.

Ericsson has been improved this season but has still been out-performed by Charles Leclerc, who is on his way to Ferrari, taking the seat of Kimi Raikkonen, who will return to Sauber.

He recently turned 28, and Sauber may feel that 24-year old Giovinazzi offers them more potential for the future.

Ericsson has six points this season, only three away from his record tally of nine, scored in his first season at Sauber.

In his other three F1 seasons, Ericsson has drawn a blank in what has been a relatively long career for a driver at the back of the grid.

In a message to fans on Twitter, Ericsson said: “Regarding today’s news, I’m proud of what I’ve achieved in these last years in F1. I’ve always given my 100%, putting my heart and soul into it.

“I will continue in the same spirit, aiming to finish the season on a high! And I’m happy to continue working with Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 team next year in a new role.”

Ericsson has been announced at Sauber’s test driver for next year.

“I’m always excited about exploring other racing options. Today is not the end of the story, it’s just the start of a new chapter. Thanks for all your support.”