Wehrlein stays calm as Manor F1 faces management exits
Pascal Wehrlein remains in contention for a 2016 Manor F1 seat despite senior resignations and uncertainty over the team's future direction.
Pascal Wehrlein, recently crowned DTM champion and Mercedes reserve driver, has said he is "relaxed" about his Formula One prospects for 2016, even as Manor faces a period of upheaval. The team confirmed that both John Booth and Graeme Lowdon, key figures in Manor's management, will leave after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Their exits follow reported disagreements with team owner Stephen Fitzpatrick over future plans.
Wehrlein, 21, is widely tipped to be in the running for a Manor race seat next season, especially after the team secured a deal for Mercedes engines. He told German newspaper Welt that his chances of landing the drive are "probably 50-50", with the alternative being a return to DTM for another year. Despite the uncertainty at Manor, Wehrlein said he is not concerned, noting that the team will be very different in 2016 thanks to the new engine partnership and technical support from Williams.
Manor's changing structure and Mercedes link
The departures of Booth and Lowdon come at a time when Manor is preparing for a major technical overhaul. Alongside the Mercedes engine supply, the team is also set to receive increased technical input from Williams. Wehrlein described the 2016 operation as almost unrecognisable from the current team, suggesting the changes could make Manor more competitive than it has been in recent seasons.
The uncertainty around Manor's management has not deterred Wehrlein from pursuing the seat, as he remains focused on joining the Formula One grid. His Mercedes backing and the new technical partnerships put him in a strong position, but he acknowledged that staying in DTM or taking a reserve role elsewhere are still possible outcomes.
What next for Manor and Wehrlein?
The future driver line-up at Manor remains undecided, with Wehrlein considered a front-runner thanks to his Mercedes connections. The team is expected to look very different in 2016, both in terms of personnel and technical capability. For Wehrlein, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether he steps up to Formula One or continues in touring cars. For more on Wehrlein's F1 prospects, seePascal Wehrlein set for Manor F1 drive in 2016, Bild reports.
