Sauber has confirmed that Marcus Ericsson will remain with the Formula 1 team next season in the role of third driver and brand ambassador.
Ericsson joined Sauber from the ailing Caterham team towards the end of 2014 and has become one of the longest-serving drivers in its history.
Ericsson scored a handful of points in 2015 but failed to reach the top 10 across 2016 and 2017 as Sauber slumped to the rear of the order, but on both occasions he kept his seat.
Ericsson has been largely overshadowed by Ferrari-bound team-mate Charles Leclerc this year but has scored points in four Grands Prix, ending a drought that extended to nearly 50 races.
Ericsson remained in contention to retain his drive but on Tuesday Sauber confirmed that current reserve Antonio Giovinazzi will race alongside Kimi Raikkonen in 2019.
Sauber confirmed shortly after that Ericsson will retain his association with the team, but did not outline whether his third driver role would extend to any track action.
"I am thankful for the past five years of my career which I have spent racing in Formula 1," he said.
"I am proud to have represented Sauber for four of those years, and for having raced for such an iconic brand as Alfa Romeo this season.
"I would have loved to continue on this path, but having a driver like Kimi Räikkönen on board is a great opportunity for the whole team.
"Going forward, I will continue contributing to the development of the team as I have always done, with full dedication and all of my support."
Ericsson has participated in 91 Grands Prix since his debut in 2014 and added that he would be exploring other options in racing.
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