Nasr has pushed me to become a better driver, says Ericsson

The former GP2 rivals have often been close on track over the past two seasons, although Nasr has scored more points, including the ninth place in Brazil that saved the Swiss team's 2016 campaign.

"I think me and Felipe has been a good match," said Ericsson. "Because we've been pushing each other. Even though I believe I've been stronger, it's still been really close, and always has been. It's always been a good fight between us two, and we've been pushing each other quite hard.

"We've had our disagreements and problems, no question about that. But I still believe that it's been a positive two years together and, like I said, we've usually been quite close pushing each other. That's been good.

"Also things that have happened, we've been able to put them aside and move on, it's not like we've had an incident and we don't talk. We're both professional enough to put it aside and move on.

"What happens next year, I don't know. If Felipe stays, I will be happy - and if somebody else comes in, I wouldn't mind either. For me, the important thing is to have someone strong so you can push each other and develop the team, move the team forward."

Ericsson believes that he was much improved in 2016: "I think it's a couple of things. I've developed my mental side and been much stronger to deliver when it matters in qualifying and races, and that goes hand in hand with the way I've driven during the weekend.

"Whereas last year I tried to make the most of it in every session and got stressed if I was not doing well in free practice. Now I know Saturday and Sunday afternoon is where it matters, and whatever happens in practice sessions is all about preparation for those two sessions.

"In FP2 I could be nowhere but we know why, because we tested this and this, and you know. You don't get stressed about it and you just continue the work you do with engineers and you get there for Saturday afternoon. I think that's been the biggest thing.

"Also understanding what I need from the car to get the most out of it. I feel like I've developed that. During a weekend I know what I need to work on with my engineers to do a good job in qualifying."