Brazilian rookie Nasr upbeat about Sauber's F1 hopes

Formula One team Sauber's Brazilian rookie Felipe Nasr has talked up his team's chances of success as he prepares for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on March 15.

The 22-year-old has been among the most impressive drivers during pre-season testing in Spain over the past 12 days, reports Xinhua.

On the final day of practice at Barcelona's Montmelo circuit on Sunday, Nasr posted the third-fastest lap time behind Williams driver Valterri Bottas and Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel.

"Now I'm starting to get nervous and if it were up to me I'd already be there (in Melbourne). I can't wait to make my (F1) debut," Nasr said.

"I have worked really hard to get here and the Melbourne race will be a unique moment and my family."

Nasr joined Sauber in November after acquiring a list of honours that included the 2011 British Formula Three and 2009 Formula BMW Europe titles

And his form alongside Swedish teammate Marcus Ericsson has raised hopes the Swiss-based team can challenge for regular podium places in 2015.

"We're going in the right direction. Our car is balanced and reliable. I don't think we're too far off the best teams," Nasr said.

"I think we'll be around the middle of the grid, at least near the beginning of the championship, and we can fight for points."