12/06/2009
NEWS STORY
Following its inclusion in the 2010 entry list, the Manor F1 Team has issued the following:
From 2010 Manor F1 Team powered by Cosworth will compete in the Formula One World Championships under the cost capped regulations.
Manor F1 Team is a new Formula One motor racing team which combines a long standing successful racing heritage with the technical excellence of Wirth Research Limited.
Manor was started in 1990 by former racing driver John Booth achieving almost instant success with race victories in its first season. It is now arguably one of the most successful teams in its class with over 170 race wins and 19 Championship titles.
Manor has proven highly successful at identifying and developing some of F1's most high profile talent. The current World Champion, Lewis Hamilton and previous World Champion Kimi Raikkonen are both former drivers for Manor. Manor's values are based on competitive excellence, true innovation and team work combined with sound commercial sense.
Nick Wirth, the Technical Director of Manor Grand Prix Racing, brings a depth of Formula One experience to the Team. Nick founded Wirth Research (WR) in 2003 and the company brings innovation in the field of racing car design and manufacture. In 2008, WR received a Queen's Award for Enterprise. WR's designs and developments in collaboration with Honda were successful in winning both the 2004 and 2005 Indy Racing League drivers and engine manufacturer's championships and Nick has subsequently produced race winning LMP 1 & LMP2 designs for Acura competing in the American Le Mans Series. WR will exclusively design, develop and supply the all-new Manor Formula 1 car, as well as providing wide-ranging engineering support for the project.
John Booth, Chairman of Manor F1 Team said, "Today is a proud moment in the history of Manor. Having competed successfully in other categories we now look forward to the challenges and opportunities presented in motor racing's premier category. Nick Wirth brings the technical experience and flair that is required to be a serious contender in Formula One."
Nick Wirth, Technical Director of Manor F1 Team said "Formula One is the pinnacle of technical excellence and we look forward to producing technical innovation within a sensible budget. Our experience and commitment to racing meant that Formula One was the next logical step in our development. It was also logical for Wirth Research to partner with Manor Racing. Manor, like Wirth, have demonstrated success in various racing categories and together we look forward to competing in Formula One next year."
Tim Routsis, CEO of Cosworth Group commented, "I offer my congratulations to Manor F1 for winning a place on the F1 grid, and wish them every success in what is one of the most challenging of sports. Cosworth is embarking on a long-term relationship with Manor F1 based on supplying leading edge motive power, first-class service and support. That Cosworth is extending its 39 year relationship with Formula One by providing a reliable and stable source of competitive engines for the foreseeable future is something that gives the business considerable pride."