Sauber opts for new chassis after Ericsson’s practice crash

Alfa Romeo Sauber has given Marcus Ericsson a new chassis for his C37 Formula 1 car following his huge crash at the start of FP2 on Friday.

A technical issue with his DRS flap at the end of the main straight saw the Swedish driver losing control of his Sauber under braking for Turn 1 and spear in the left-hand side barriers which sent him into multiple rolls before coming to a rest by the chicane.

Ericsson was able to hop out of his car unaided and has been cleared by the FIA medical team to continue to remainder of the Italian Grand Prix race weekend.

Given the substantial damage to his F1 car, the Swiss squad has changed Ericsson’s chassis in preparation for FP3. Sauber mechanics broke the FIA curfew, working on Ericsson’s car until 01:00 on Saturday before restarting at 09:00 this morning, but as it was the team’s first curfew break of a permitted two per season no further action will be taken.

“The accident I had in FP2 was a big impact – thanks to the strength of the car I am alright,” Ericsson said following the crash on Friday. “The team is already working hard to repair the car so that I can be back on track tomorrow. I look forward to driving again.”