Marcus Ericsson to Become Reserve Driver for Mercedes GP?

Marcus Ericsson is reportedly in pole position for securing the test/reserve driving position within the Mercedes GP Formula One team. Although there were several reports linking an experienced driver to that role (yes, we're referring to F1 veteran Nick Heidfeld), some media reports from Finland suggest that Mercedes is searching for some young blood for that position.

Finland's Turun Sanomat was the publication that reported this piece of news, through its live correspondent to the Madonna di Campiglio ski resort in northern Italy (where Ferrari's Wrooom event takes place) Heikki Kulta. He reported that the Formula One Teams Association (FOTA) is thinking of allowing young drivers to run on the Friday of every racing weekend throughout the 2010 season.

It would therefore be in Petronas Mercedes GP's best interest to sign a young (rookie) driver to do the job in 2010, as the team would benefit from some extra testing of their challenger before the racing weekend kicks off (and make the logical adjustments needed, from track to track).

In late December 2009, it was rumored that Nick Heidfeld is considering signing a reserve driver contract with the Brackley-based team, being that he hasn't yet found a team for the 2010 season. However, the news was quickly dismissed by Mercedes motorsports director Norbert Haug, who revealed that his team is in no hurry of announcing a driver for that vacant spot until the start of the season.

Ericsson stepped into Mercedes' eyes after clinching the Japanese F3 championship last year. Consequently, he was offered a chance to test the BGP 001 car during the 3-day Jerez rookie testing session last December.