After months of speculation Manor has finally confirmed that Indonesian Rio Haryanto will race for the team this season.
The GP2 race winner will thus join Pascal Wehrlein in a line-up that features two rookies. The news also puts an end to the hopes of both Alex Rossi and Will Stevens, who had also been in the frame for a drive.
“We are delighted to announce Rio as our second race driver for 2016,” said team boss Stephen Fitzpatrick. “Rio’s been racing since he first got into a kart at six years old. He’s tenacious on and off the track and made a big impression on last year’s GP2 battle. Rio’s huge following in Indonesia is great for the team and for F1. They are keen to see him on the grid and we’re confident that we’ll see him enjoying some exciting battles in the year ahead.”
Haryanto has tested for the team on three occasion, starting as long ago as 2010, when it was still known as Virgin.
“Manor Racing is a team with an exciting vision and ambitious plans,” said Haryanto. “They have produced a great package and I can’t wait to get in the car. Melbourne will be a huge moment for me, my country, supporters and fans and I want to thank everyone who’s been with me since I started in single seaters; 2016 is my chance to reward that faith and represent Asia in F1.”
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