Alexander Rossi joins Manor from Singapore

Alexander Red finally has his chance. The American will make his racing debut in F1 this weekend in Singapore replacing the Spaniard Roberto Merhi at Manor. This change comes as part of a contract signed between the resident of the GP2 Series (where he plays with Racing Engineering) and the formation of John Booth so that Rossi competes in five of the last seven Grands Prix of the season.

We will therefore find the current second in the GP2 championship in action from Singapore, as well as in Japan, the United States (his home event), Mexico and Brazil. Roberto Merhi will only drive in Russia and Abu Dhabi (Rossi thus being able to end his season in GP2, editor's note), while taking the role of reserve driver during the other rounds.

Alexander Rossi will be the first American to start a race since Scott Speed ​​in 2007. He notably spent time with Caterham F1 Team as a test driver between 2012 and 2014 before moving to Marussia, where he had took part in the first free practice session of the Belgian Grand Prix last year, while there was once a question of him competing in the race.

"I've been prepared for this occasion for quite a while now, admits the 23-year-old pilot. Many knew since 2014 that the team and I already had a strong relationship and there is a feeling of unfinished business for me here. It’s a small F1 team that has been through so much. They embody passion and their comeback this season is extraordinary. I am honored to be a part of this legacy, their growth and continued success. »