Chilton will race after contract dispute resolved

Max Chilton will race at the Belgian Grand Prix after a dramatic U-turn today. American Alexander Rossi was due to take Chilton’s place after a contract dispute.

During Free Practice One this morning, news began to circulate that the 23-year-old, who was in attendance, would race this weekend. The contract issues, which we believe relate to an unpaid payment by Chilton’s sponsors, have been sorted and the Brit has been re-instated.

As Marussia have a small budget, they rely on their drivers to bring their own finance. As Chilton’s sponsors had failed to make the payment the team were forced to seek further money.

Chief Executive Officer, Graeme Lowdon said: “These things happen. It’s the drivers’ jobs to be flexible. Both Max and Alex are professional drivers who will take this in their stride”.

Marussia and Chilton are receiving criticism, as Chilton's PR team suggested that he had given up the seat “voluntarily” in order to help the team find further funds.

After naming Rossi as a driver this weekend, the team had to ask permission from the FIA to allow Chilton to race. Chilton will now drive in Free Practice Two this afternoon, and for the rest of the weekend.

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