SAUBER CONFIRMS 2018 DRIVER LINE-UP

Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team confirm 2018 driver line-up – Photo: Alfa Romeo

Sauber joined Alfa Romeo at an event at Museo Storico Alfa Romeo overnight to celebrate the Italian manufacturers return to Formula 1, using the event announce their 2018 driver line-up.

The new look Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team confirmed that Marcus Ericsson and Charles Leclerc will drive for the team next year, while Antonio Giovinazzi will complete six FP1 sessions.

“We are all delighted about the cooperation with Alfa Romeo. Today, we created the foundation for our partnership at the Alfa Romeo Museum in Arese, Italy.” said Frédéric Vasseur, Sauber Team Principal.

“With Marcus (Ericsson) and Charles (Leclerc), we have a strong driver duo for the debut season of the Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team.”

“Marcus is an experienced Formula One driver, who knows the procedures and the team well, after having worked together for the past 3 years. He is a team player, and has a very positive attitude.”

“Charles has proven his talent in several racing series, most recently winning the Formula 2 World Championship title. He had the chance to drive in four FP1 sessions and two tyre tests for us this season, and convinced the team with his professionalism and charisma.”

Marcus Ericsson and Charles Leclerc on stage during Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team celebration – Photo: Alfa Romeo

Marcus Ericsson continues his relationship with the team, having driven for them since 2015, after making his Formula One debut with Catherham in 2014.

“First of all, I would like to congratulate the team on the new partnership with Alfa Romeo.” said Ericsson.

“It is a great honour for me to be driving for this team in 2018, and I am excited and proud to be part of this promising journey.”

“I am confident that I can add to the knowledge and experience of the team.”

“This winter is going to be very busy, and it will be important to push the development of the car in order to have a good start to the season. I am optimistic, that 2018 can be a big step and a good chance for us to move up in the field.”

Ferrari Junior driver and reigning F2 champion, Charles Leclerc, will join the team, replacing Pascal Wehrlein, to make his Formula 1 competition debut in 2018. The F2 and GP3 winner completed several tests for both Sauber and Ferrari Formula 1 teams in 2017.

“I am very happy to be entering Formula One in 2018.” said Leclerc

“First and foremost, I would like to thank Ferrari for their support. I would also like to thank Sauber for their trust and confidence in me as a driver, and look forward to joining the Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team for the upcoming season.”

“It was a great experience to drive a few FP1 sessions and tyre tests for the Sauber F1 Team in 2017, during which the team welcomed me straight away. It is a great working environment, and I already feel confident and comfortable here. In 2018, my aim will be to gain more experience in Formula One, and to bring as much value to the team as possible in return.”

Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team also used the event to showcase a red and white concept livery with predominate Alfa Romeo branding on the car.

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