Rio Haryanto was rumored to be in discussions with Manor for a seat and a return to the minnow F1 outfit, but that plan has now hit a major road block.

The Indonesian's prominent backer, state-owned energy company Pertamina has decided to pull its sponsorship unfortunately, leaving Haryanto without any substantial sponsorship for 2017.

"This year there will not be a continuation of participation by Pertamina in F1," spokeswoman Wianda Pusponegoro said in a statement on Tuesday, noting that Pertamina could not meet a sponsorship deadline.

"Of course we regret this very much, but we have already made maximal efforts for Rio and Indonesia."

Through his management, Rio Haryanto, who ran in 12 races last year with Manor before he was replaced by Esteban Ocon at Spa, said that he was still hopeful about his future as a Grand Prix driver.

We are still working on a plan to keep Rio in Formula One," Haryanto's manager, Piers Hunnisett, told Reuters.

"People in the F1 world felt he did a good job and he deserves to be there," Hunnisett said, adding that it would be a "great shame" if Haryanto missed out on a seat in 2017.

Pertamina have been Haryanto's constant backers in F1, to the tune of over $5M, and while the Indonesian was seeking additional non-government support, he was confident that Pertamina would continue its sponsorship.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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