Max Chilton expects to remain with Marussia in 2014 despite speculation that McLaren are pushing for the outfit to run Kevin Magnussen next year.
The Briton hasn’t made a huge impact on the sport in his debut season unlike team-mate Jules Bianchi who’s outqualified Chilton 15-2, but the 22-year-old believes he’s shown more of what he can do in the most recent races.
“I came into Formula One and was ready, but it definitely takes time to really get it,” he told the official F1 website.
“Since the break I’ve felt a lot more comfortable, and also the car has been more balanced so I’ve been able to show more of my potential.”
With Bianchi’s seat likely secure and McLaren pushing for its young Dane to take the second seat, Chilton is under pressure, but he believes he’s done enough to stay with the Banbury team.
“Next year it’s most likely that I will stay with Marussia – but of course I have to get the deal done first.
“The team has good potential, but it’s crucial that we stay ahead of Caterham in the constructors’ championship as the price money we’d get can make up a big percentage of our yearly budget,” he added.
“If we have that we can put it towards a better car for next year. That would really help! It would mean that we have the chance to start 2014 really strong.”
