Merhi not on borrowed time - Manor

Roberto Merhi’s seat is secure despite the arrival of Fabio Leimer as reserve driver at Manor, according to Graeme Lowdon.

With Will Stevens contracted to race for the full 2015 season, Merhi’s deal is more flexible and has often been confirmed on a race-by-race basis since the opening four rounds. With 2013 GP2 champion Leimer joining Manor ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, the appointment prompted speculation Merhi could be replaced in the near future.

When asked by F1i’s Eric Silbermann if Merhi’s days were numbered due to Leimer joining, sporting director Lowdon replied: “No, not at all.

“We’d been running without a reserve driver and although we have various arrangements in place to cover that situation, it’s better to have that sort of area covered with someone who’s with the team all the time.

“These cars are so complex now, it’s not a case of just strapping someone in. So there are huge advantages to having a third driver and yes, you’re quite right, it keeps everyone honest and there’s no harm in that.

“These guys all know each other and feed off each other and the other thing is that with the way regulations are going it’s harder to find the right drivers with the right experience.”