Looking like the ex-boyfriend at the wedding, Roberto Merhi cut a sad figure at today's official press conference.

The Spaniard, who was revealed as one of the drivers on duty for the press conference only yesterday, was clearly as much in the dark about Manor recruitment of Alexander Rossi as the FIA.

"I flew here on Monday and when I arrived the team gave me the news that I would not be driving and Rossi would replace me for five races," he admitted.

However, the Spanish youngster bears no grudges and says he is already looking forward to the races in Russia and Abu Dhabi, where he is back in the car.

"At the beginning of the year, when I came to Melbourne with the team, they gave me a great chance to be part of the team, and be a driver for the team," he said. "I didn't know how long it would end up, but at least I did twelve races. That is really good for a driver in F1, and they give me good chance to be in there in the car and I want to stay thank you.

"Now they have taken a decision that is better for the team in terms of long terms results, so now I prepare, try to improve, and learn so I am ready to race in Sochi and Abu Dhabi."

Looking ahead, he added: "For next year, we don't know yet. We are looking for an F1 seat and we will try to find the best option possible. "But in these days it is really important to have the budget and at the moment it is hard to find some budget."

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