Share

Marussia F1 replace Merhi with American driver

Singapore - Alexander Rossi will become Formula One's first U.S. driver since 2007 at this weekend's Singapore Grand Prix after replacing Spaniard Roberto Merhi at the Manor Marussia team.

The tail-enders, last in the constructors' standings and yet to score a point this season, announced on Wednesday that the 23-year-old Californian would drive for them alongside Britain's Will Stevens in five of the remaining seven races.

That will include his home grand prix in Austin, Texas, on Oct. 25.

Merhi will return for the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi and Abu Dhabi season-ender because Rossi has GP2 commitments.

The American, currently second in that series behind runaway leader Stoffel Vandoorne of Belgium, will be the first U.S. driver on the Formula One grid since Scott Speed competed for Toro Rosso.

"I've been prepared for this opportunity for quite a while now," said Rossi, who nearly raced for Marussia in Belgium last year when the team threatened to drop Britain's Max Chilton in a contractual dispute.

"Many will know from 2014 that the team and I already have a strong relationship and there's a bit of unfinished business for me here," he added.

"This is a small F1 team that has been through so much. They exemplify passion and true strength of character, and their comeback this season is extraordinary. I'm honoured to be part of this legacy and their continued growth and success."

Rossi took part in Friday first practice for the team in Spa last year but by the time he had stepped out of the car, the dispute with Chilton had been resolved.

Marussia then went into administration and missed the last three races of 2014, returning this season only after finding a buyer at the 11th hour.

Rossi had also been linked to the U.S.-based Haas Formula One team, who are to debut next year, but they recently poured cold water on his chances.

"Singapore is a circuit I really enjoy and the timing of my debut could not be more perfect. There's a lot of work ahead and I'm looking forward to a busy end to the 2015 season," he said.

Manor principal John Booth said he was delighted to give Rossi his chance.

"He is widely-regarded as a driver who is on the cusp of an exciting F1 career and his current form in the GP2 Series has done much to reinforce his clear potential," he said.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE