Swede won't drive in Abu Dhabi even if Caterham return to grid
Wednesday 12 November 2014 17:28, UK
Marcus Ericsson has cut his ties with the Caterham F1 Team with immediate effect.
The Swede made his F1 debut with the Leafield outfit this season, but has been forced to sit out the last two races as the team are in administration.
Ericsson has already agreed a deal to drive for Sauber in 2015 and has ruled out making a final appearance for Caterham if they make it to the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
“Following recent events re Caterham Sports Limited and 1 MRT Sdn Bhd, my adviser Eje Elgh and I have decided to terminate, with immediate effect, all agreements connecting me to the Caterham F1 team,” Ericsson said in a statement.
“This is a sad day as we have greatly enjoyed working with the team through a difficult and tough season.
“I wish to thank Colin Kolles, Manfredi Ravetto, Cyril Abiteboul and every other member of the Caterham F1 team for your trust and confidence in me, and for making my first Formula 1 season an educational and unforgettable experience.
“In addition, I thank my good friend and teammate Kamui Kobayashi for being an inspiring benchmark throughout the year, and hope to see him back on the track soon.”
Caterham are yet to score a point in F1 and have launched a crowdfunding scheme to raise £2.35 million by Friday to allow them to race at next week’s Abu Dhabi GP.
Ericsson's announcement means the team will have at least one vacant seat at Yas Marina should they return to the grid and Britain’s Alice Powell has been linked with the drive.
