Bianchi extends his contract with Marussia till 2014

Marussia have confirmed that Jules Bianchi will continue to drive for the team in 2014.The French driver made his Grand Prix debut with Marussia this season having already spent the last season as a reserve driver for Force India.His best result of sixth place at the Malaysian Grand Prix has helped his Russian team to run 10th in the championship ahead of rival Caterham.

“I am very happy to be able to confirm that I will stay with the Marussia F1 Team in 2014. I couldn’t have wished for a more supportive environment in which to make my F1 debut and from the very beginning I have always felt completely at home with the Team.” Bianchi said.

“We started the season very well and while the challenge has increased as the season has developed, we have learned important lessons together that will place us in a much stronger position next year when there are a lot of changes for the sport and the Team to get used to.”

Marussia team principal John Booth was equally excited about the announcement.

“It gives us great pleasure to announce that we will go forward into 2014 with Jules as one of our race drivers,” Marussia Team Principal John Booth said. “Jules joined us at very short notice at the end of pre-season testing, with only two days of running under his belt. He rose to the challenge of his debut season exceptionally well and since that time has clearly demonstrated his ability and potential.

“2014 heralds a new era for the sport and continuity and consistency of line-up will be important in helping us to navigate the transition. We look forward to confirming our full race driver line-up later in the season.”

The deal ends the speculation of Bianchi joining Sauber in 2014.