Max Chilton will compete in the Belgian Grand Prix following a sensational U-turn after his Marussia team announced that Alexander Rossi would replace the Brit this weekend.
The British team had previously cited contractual issues as the reason for promoting reserve driver Rossi to take over Chilton’s seat and make his grand prix race debut at Spa Francorchamps.
Chilton’s management issued a subsequent statement claiming the 23-year-old had voluntarily stepped aside from his seat.
However, just hours before the second free practice session, the FIA received a request from Marussia for Chilton to return to the seat of the #4 entry for the remainder of the weekend.
The FIA granted the request forcing Rossi to hand back the drive having already completed the opening free practice session.
“The stewards have received a request form the Marussia F1 Team to change the nominated driver Alexander Rossi (Car 42) back to their previously nominated driver Max Chilton (Car 4) for the 2014 Belgian Grand Prix,” read an FIA statement.
“In accordance with Article 19 of the FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations the stewards grant permission for this driver change.”