Sauber F1 driver Marcus Ericsson is excited for the return to Abu Dhabi this weekend with the season finale, believing the team will do their best again to score points for a successful completion to the season.
The Swede, who missed the race in 2014 at the circuit when he decided not to return to the Caterham F1 Team despite the team deciding to race following their absence from the previous two events due to being in administration, took part in the post-race test with Sauber last year at the track, and is looking forward to his first race at the circuit with the team this weekend.
“Abu Dhabi, the last race of the season, it is unbelievable how time flies,” said Ericsson. “It is very exciting to come back to Abu Dhabi and I am looking forward to enjoying the race weekend there.
“This Grand Prix in the middle east is always a great event attended by lots of fans from many countries. It is a race in the desert with the start at sunset. The track itself is in perfect condition, it is very modern and has some run-off areas.
“As the circuit has a few long straights, engine power will be crucial. On the other hand, there are also hairpins and some slow speed corners. I am quite familiar with that track from my time in the GP2 series and I also drove there for my first test for the Sauber F1 Team in November last year.
“Certainly, we will again do our best to score points, for a successful completion to the season.”
Ericsson’s team-mate Felipe Nasr has also never driven a race at Yas Marina as a Formula 1 driver, having tested with Williams at the track in 2014, with the Brazilian looking forward to enjoying the race.
“The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is another great event, and I will enjoy driving on this track with our car for the first time,” said Nasr. “So far, I have driven there as a GP2 driver and I have also had an F1 test with Williams.
“I can also say, because of my family’s Lebanese roots, I always receive a warm welcome and a lot of support both in the UAE and the whole of the Middle East. They make me feel I am also at home. I like the people, their traditions, their cultures and, of course, the food.
“On the track it will be important again to find the right set-up and this is where we need to concentrate our focus the most on Friday. The track in the desert sands is quite spectacular with unique surroundings.
“All in all, the atmosphere is special. The race starts late in the afternoon, which makes it even more interesting, because of the floodlit-style à la Singapore. We will keep on with our fight for a good result.”
