Max Chilton back as Marussia F1 driver

Max Chilton was restored in his race seat with the Marussia Formula One team on Friday and will resume as a driver in second free practice for the Belgian Grand Prix, the team confirmed on Friday.

Marussia had announced on Thursday that American Alexander Rossi was taking over from the Briton due to contractual issues.

But the team revised their plans for Sunday’s race, a move confirmed by the sport’s ruling body, the International Motoring Federation (FIA).

Rossi took part in Friday morning’s opening free practice session.

Chilton said he had voluntarily stepped aside to allow the team to sell his seat to secure what he said was a much-needed financial boost.

A team spokesperson confirmed Chilton would be racing and an application had already been lodged with the FIA for him to be back in the car for Friday afternoon’s second free practice session.

A FIA statement said: “The stewards have received a request from Marussia F1 Team to change the nominated driver Alexander Rossi (car #42) back to their previously nominated driver Max Chilton (car #4) for the 2014 Belgian Grand Prix.

“In accordance with Article 19 of the FIA Formula 1 sporting regulations, the stewards grant permission for this driver change.”

Marussia team chief Graeme Lowdon told the BBC: “These things happen. It is the driver’s job to be flexible and both Max and Alex are professional drivers and will take this in their stride.

“It is a reflection of how the industry has to work sometimes.”

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