The Sauber F1 Team head into the Monaco Grand Prix still looking to secure their first points of a troubled 2016 season that has been overshadowed so far by off-track financial worries, but both Marcus Ericsson and Felipe Nasr will be looking to put any off-track issues to the back of their mind this weekend.
It will be Ericsson’s third Monaco Grand Prix and his second for Sauber, and the Swede revealed that it is one of the highlights of his season, although he acknowledges the challenge and the concentration required to have a good weekend.
“Racing in Monte Carlo has a long tradition which makes it to one of the most remarkable races in the Formula One season,” said Ericsson. “The track is a lot of fun to drive, but very challenging at the same time.
“Every little mistake can mean ending up in the barriers. It is all about very precise driving and having the confidence in the car to use every centimetre of the track.
“I cannot wait to race in Monte Carlo. I really enjoy the atmosphere around the circuit, which also makes it one of the highlights of the season.”
Team-mate Nasr secured points at the circuit in 2015 with the team, and is looking for another positive result in 2016 that would go a long way to giving the troubled team some much needed joy.
“The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the best races on the calendar,” insisted Nasr. “The track on the narrow streets of Monte Carlo is a real challenge – for us drivers as well as for the car.
“There is a fine line between driving the perfect lap and pushing the car to the limit. I really like racing there as the atmosphere is also very special.
“Last year I had a great race during which I was able to score points by finishing in P9. I hope that we can have a positive weekend this year as well.”
