Max Chilton insists he voluntarily stepped aside for the Belgian Grand Prix this weekend in a bid to help the team financially.
It was announced that Alexander Rossi would replace the Briton for the entire race weekend with Marussia saying it was because of “contractual issues” which needed to be resolved.
Chilton’s PR company however issued a statement immediately after to the contrary, claiming Chilton’s decision was to help the team find additional funds by selling his seat.
“Max Chilton has volunteered to step out of his race seat for this weekend’s race in Spa, Belgium, to allow the team to attract much needed funds by selling his seat,” read the statement.
“Max will attend the race and be on hand to support the team in any way possible. It is expected that Marussia will invite reserve driver Alexander Rossi to take Max’s seat.
“Marussia are currently in talks with several new investors and it is expected that situation will be resolved before the next race in the F1 calendar in Monza.”
It isn’t clear what “contractual issues” Marussia are referring too.
