Sauber announce Russian partnership

8220;The partnership includes further activities for the promotion of the inaugural Formula One Grand Prix in Sochi in 2014 and attracting the talented young Russian generation towards motorsport,8221; it added.

8220;In particular,a development programme will be set up for the Russian driver Sergey Sirotkin to prepare him as a racing driver for the team in 2014.

8220;This extensive co-operation will showcase Russian innovation at the pinnacle of motorsport. At the same time,the Sauber F1 Team will have a solid foundation to increase its competitiveness on a long-term basis,8221; it added.

The 17-year-old Sirotkin is currently competing in the Formula Renault 3.5 series.

Sauber8217;s current race drivers are experienced German Nico Hulkenberg,who is expected to move on,and Mexican Esteban Gutierrez.

The Swiss-based team have been seeking a new partner to get them out of a financial hole,with founder Peter Sauber recognising delays in paying some suppliers.

8220;The situation is serious. It is one of the most difficult situations since I8217;ve been in motorsport,8221; he told Blick newspaper at the weekend.

Sauber said details of the cooperation would be communicated at a later stage.