Sauber’s Pascal Wehrlein and Marcus Ericsson both face losing their seats at the Swiss team for next season.
The team is expected to hire Formula 2 Champion Charles Leclerc, the young Monegasque driver is predicted to replace Wehrlein.
However, when asked about this, the German was optimistic that he will be racing next year.
“I don’t know,” Wehrlein said. “But I don’t think that this [Abu Dhabi] is my last Formula 1 race.
“It is still unthinkable that I won’t race next year.
“Racing is my priority, and preferably in Formula 1.”
Although the possibility of who could take Felipe Massa’s Williams seat in 2018 remains open, Wehrlein has not been linked as a major candidate for the seat.
There is also speculation that Ericsson could lose his seat at Sauber also, despite his strong links to the team’s owners.
“The chance is good, but unfortunately, nothing is decided, which feels strange at the last race of the season,” Ericsson said.
Ferrari junior Antonio Giovinazzi has also been linked with a seat at Sauber for 2018 after the youngster has done several tests, driving in practice sessions throughout the year.
“I understand that there are talks with Ferrari about how big the collaboration will be, and I know that Ferrari wants to have two drivers on the team,” Ericsson added.
“That’s my main concern right now.
“I have not signed anything, so if they make an announcement, that’s not good news for me,
“My management is keeping the options open and has contacts with other series.”
