Manor determined to go to grid

The team — formerly named Virgin and then Marussia — say they have been given permission to go to the grid in Australia on March 15 with a modified version of their 2014 car.

That’s despite their hopes having seemingly been torpedoed last week by Force India, who were concerned about a lack of detail in the former Dinnington team’s proposal, particularly over projected financial backing and new safety regulations.

The other F1 teams had been asked to give their backing but Force India deputy team principal Bob Fernley vetoed the move.

Manor claim they have already been given the green light to race in Melbourne by the F1 strategy group which comprises Bernie Ecclestone, the FIA and the six leading teams — and they are to push ahead with a round-the-clock target of being on the grid for the opener.

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