Ellinas returns for seconde season with Marussia Manor

Marussia Manor Racing, the GP3 Series team that is part of the Marussia F1 Team Young Driver Programme, is pleased to announce that Tio Ellinas will return to the squad for a second season. Tio, aged 21 and from Cyprus, shone in the Series last season and as a reward for being the highest placed Marussia Manor GP3 Driver of 2012 he will also be provided with the opportunity to get his first taste of Formula 1 machinery at the Marussia F1 Team Young Driver Test later this year.

The GP3 Series will once again create the ideal proving ground for aspiring young racers to prove their potential in front of the Formula 1 Teams. The all-new GP3 car has made big technical advances with an improved aero package and a new 400bhp power plant - the perfect stepping stone to the pinnacle of motorsport.

Tio Ellinas commented: "I am delighted that I will be returning with Marussia Manor Racing for a second season. The new GP3 car is fantastic to drive and I think the racing will be very exciting and highly competitive. After a strong end to the season in 2012 and a good winter test programme, I head to the first race at Barcelona full of confidence. It is going to be an interesting season."

John Booth, Team Principal, Marussia F1 Team (Young Driver Programme) said: "Tio has a rare natural ability; certainly up there with the best of the drivers who have graduated through our junior programme. The GP3 Series is looking very strong this year, the new car is a big step forward and the grid is full of the best young talent. It will be a tough season but we hope our preparations and strong driver line-up will put us in a good position to challenge for the Championship. The Team can’t wait to get started in Barcelona next month and we on the F1 Team pit wall will be following Tio’s progress with great interest."