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Rio Haryanto has admitted for the first time that he might not make it through the 2016 season. Although backed by the Indonesian government and highly popular in his native country, it is understood the rookie is only paid up at Manor until mid-season. But his manager Piers Hunnisett told us in February: "All is confirmed for a full season."
There are signs, however, that the full season for Haryanto is in fact not guaranteed. The Indonesian government has launched a novel text message fundraising campaign. And his teammate Pascal Wehrlein said recently: "I really hope that he can do the whole season to the end and doesn't have to stop after the first half."
When asked by F1's official website if his seat depends on the success of his fundraising, Haryanto said: "I have no answer for that right now. No question, I would like to stay and finish the season here," he added.
Haryanto is at least giving himself the best possible chance, casting off the pre-season impression that he would be destroyed by fellow rookie Wehrlein. "He is a future Mercedes driver," said Haryanto, "and when I am not far off his time - wow - that's always fantastic for me." (GMM)
Grand Prix of Belgium
G. Zhou
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Replies (4)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
How much has he had to pay for that seat by now? Its getting a bit ridiculous Manor. Its not like he has underperformed, in fact I think he has done a decent job.
mclarenfan1968
Posts: 1,027
Milk milk while you can. Besides the majority fan base are ignorant they probably think Indonesia is some backwater country that can't produce good drivers. Easy to sell this sort of racist treachery as a performance based decision.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
It does feel like this is the case. But the gain Manor hasnt really treated any of it's recent drivers with any kind of dignity.
Vet5
Posts: 225
Manor need to start spending money before they start asking for it. They have done about 1-2 developments to the car this season, and they should have no reason to be so far behind this season either. Mercedes didn't charge them for the engine on the basis they give Pascal a seat, and Mercedes are even paying Pascal his wages, not Manor, and all the money they have taken in is outrageous! I though Maldonado was a big pay driver, but the Indonesian government is taking the piss!