Where there's a Will - Stevens still has his sights on a seat for next season

12 November 2015 03:01

British racer Will Stevens says he is not worried about his Formula One future and is confident he will be on the grid next season.

Backmarkers Manor, who will be powered by Mercedes engines next year, are the only team yet to announce their driver line-up for 2016.

Stevens, competing in his full season in the sport after making his debut for Caterham at last year's final race in Abu Dhabi, has been partnered by Spaniard Roberto Merhi and American Alexander Rossi, this term.

But the British-based team have so far been tight-lipped as to who will occupy their two races seats next term.

"If it was not looking good, or I was worried about the situation then I would look at other options but right now we are not looking at anything else," said Stevens ahead of this weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix.

"As far as next year is concerned, things are moving in the right direction. "It takes time but hopefully, everything will get sorted in the near future.

"There is no time frame or set date. From everyone's perspective, they want it done as soon as possible, so everyone is pushing."

Off track, Manor face an uncertain future after it was reported in Mexico that team principal John Booth and sporting director Graeme Lowdon will leave their respective posts at the end of the season.

Booth founded Manor in 1990, while Lowdon was pivotal in keeping the cash-strapped team in business after they were entered into administration last year.

But both men are said to have grown frustrated with British businessman and team owner Stephen Fitzpatrick, who rescued the team with £30million of his own money last year.

"In terms of losing people, I don't know what's happening but a s far as we are concerned we are focused on racing next year," Stevens, 24, added.

"There are two seats left on the grid and I want one of them. That is my focus and all the outside factors are not for us to worry about.

"I know we are all pushing to do the best job for the car next year and looking to improve the performance. I want to be part of that and we are pushing to make that happen, so in terms of the outside factors, I don't know the ins and out - and my sole focus is trying to get my seat for next year.

"Yes, I will be annoyed if I don't get a seat but right now I am confident with the people around me and those working for me away from the track can make it happen."

Source: PA