Sauber fields Fong, Ericsson for Pirelli test

It will be the third appearance for the 25-year-old Hong Kong driver with Sauber after the 2014 test with the Sauber C31 and his FP1 appearance last year at the same venue.

The prime objective for Fong, who is also a development driver for Lotus, is to complete 300km, so as to qualify for the extension of his superlicence.

Once he has completed the required miles, regular driver Ericsson will take over to test some of the Pirelli's 2016 construction tyres and the new ultrasoft compound.

"I am very pleased and thankful to have another opportunity to drive for the Sauber F1 team," said Fong. "I will do my best to give valuable feedback.

"I am looking forward to it, as well as the aim of extending my super licence after completing 300 kilometres," he added.

"Last year it was great to have the chance to drive the Sauber C33-Ferrari during FP1 here at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Now I am curious about testing the current car."

Sauber team principal Monisha Kaltenborn added: “We are pleased to have Adderly in the car again and to give him the opportunity to drive a current Formula 1 car.

"He immediately put in a solid performance in his last opportunities for us. We are confident Adderly will again put in every effort in this tyre test.”