Grosjean Confirms 2016 F1 Future Lies With Lotus or Haas
Romain Grosjean says he has made his decision for 2016 but will only reveal that he will remain in Formula One, with his options narrowed to Lotus or Haas.
Romain Grosjean has confirmed his options for the 2016 Formula One season are down to staying with Lotus or joining new entrant Haas, but the Frenchman is keeping his final decision under wraps for now.
Speaking ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix, Grosjean told reporters he knows what his next move will be but is not ready to announce it publicly. He confirmed that he will continue racing in Formula One next year, putting to rest any speculation about a move outside the sport.
The 29-year-old's future has been the subject of speculation as Lotus faces ongoing uncertainty over its finances and a possible Renault takeover. Meanwhile, Haas F1 is preparing to join the grid in 2016 with a technical partnership with Ferrari, making it an attractive alternative for drivers seeking a fresh challenge.
Lotus or Haas: the only options left
Grosjean stated that the rest of the Formula One grid is effectively full, confirming that his choice was limited to Lotus or Haas. He said he had all the information he needed to make his decision, though he would not be drawn on which team he has chosen.
If Grosjean leaves Lotus, the team will need to find a replacement driver for 2016. For more on potential candidates, see Kobayashi linked to possible Lotus seat as Grosjean future questioned.
What Grosjean’s decision means for the grid
With most teams having already confirmed their 2016 line-ups, Grosjean’s move will finalise one of the last open seats. If he joins Haas, he will become the lead driver for a new American team with close Ferrari ties. If he stays at Lotus, he faces the prospect of a team in transition, possibly under Renault ownership.
Grosjean has not indicated when he will announce his final decision, but with pre-season preparations looming, confirmation is expected soon.
