(Marussia F1 Team via Twitter)
American Alexander Rossi will make an unexpected race debut at this weekend's Belgian GrandPrix after the Marussia F1 Team announced he would replace Max Chilton due to contractual issues with Chilton.
Rossi joined Marussia earlier this season from the Caterham F1 Team. Commenting on the announced Marussia Team principal John Booth stated:
'Although it was not our intention to offer Alexander the possibility to race this season, in light of the circumstances we are pleased to be providing him with the opportunity to make his Grand Prix debut at this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix in Spa-Franchorchamps. Naturally we hope to resume normal service with respect to our established race driver line-up as soon as possible, but for now we wish Alexander well for the weekend ahead and we look forward to seeing him in action.'
Rossi becomes the first American to compete in Formula One since Scott Speed drove for the Toro Rosso in 2007. Speaking about the announcement Rossi said:
'It goes without saying that I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to race in Formula 1 for the first time and I cannot thank the Marussia F1 Team for the faith they are demonstrating in me. It’s a very big moment for me and there’s a lot to prepare in a short space of time, but on the other hand I have felt ready for this for quite a while now. It is also exciting to be given this opportunity at such a fantastic and historical circuit as Spa-Francorchamps. I can’t wait to drive the MR03 from tomorrow and I hope to reward the team with a solid race weekend.'
© Ben Johnston 2014
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