JULY 14, 2017

Sauber-Honda engine deal in doubt says Ericsson

Marcus Ericsson has admitted the identity of Sauber's engine supplier for 2018 is in doubt.

Earlier, the Swiss team inked a contract to become Honda's first F1 customer, but rumours suggest the deal could now be scrapped.

"To be honest, a lot has happened over the past few days," Swedish driver Ericsson said.

"Frederic (Vasseur)'s first priority is to look into the matter."

Asked if he would be happy with a Honda engine next year, Ericsson answered: "If Honda is 100 per cent focused on success, then it's good for Sauber. Otherwise not.

"I understand the question, but I don't really know what to think of it," he added.

Meanwhile, amid speculation Ericsson is too closely linked to Sauber's new owners, incoming boss Vasseur told L'Equipe: "The future of a team should not depend on a single driver.

"I will have the last word on the driver question in the future," he said.

(GMM)