Nasr admits he could leave Sauber

Felipe Nasr has played down suggestions he will definitely leave Sauber at the end of the season.

As the Swiss team flounders beneath obvious financial strain, and Nasr’s relationship with teammate Marcus Ericsson hits rock bottom, recent reports suggested the Brazilian intends to take his sponsor Banco do Brazil elsewhere for 2017.

But Nasr has now told Brazil’s UOL Esporte that he does not rule out staying at Sauber.

"My first choice is still here (Sauber), of course," said the 23-year-old. "It is the team with which I have a contract until the end of the year.

"I have to put my options on the table and see what is possible, but I cannot rule out Sauber," Nasr added.

Nonetheless, rumours persist not only that Nasr’s relationship with Ericsson is over following their crash and team orders controversy in Monaco, but that there is also strain between him and team boss Monisha Kaltenborn.

Nasr admitted he has "more than one option" for 2017.