Exclusive Interview: Rio Haryanto on His Contract Termination  

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Rio Haryanto’s hope to complete the this season’s Formula 1 race has gone. Manor Racing Team has decided to terminate his contract on Wednesday, August 10, 2016. Rio spoke to Tempo about his contract termination and future plans.

Below is Rio Haryanto’s interview with Tempo minutes after Manor terminated his contract.

How did you learn that Manor has terminated your contract?

My manager, Piers Hunnissett, called me. He told me about the decision.

What was the reason behind Manor’s decision?

Actually, they had helped me by allowing me to race in German Grand Prix. With the available funding, I should have only raced up to the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Okay. How much was the financial shortcomings you had to pay to Manor?

The contract says it was 15 million euros in total. We only managed to garner 8 million euros. We were 7 million euros short.

Aside from contract termination, what did Manor say?

Manor has offered me to become a reserve driver.

Did you accept it?

I will discuss it with my management team.

You have helped Manor a lot in the development of their car for a half season. Will you still be involved in the development next season?

If I become a reserve driver, the development program will continue. I will discuss it first with Manor’s engineers.

If you become a reserve driver, will you still be with the team?

Actually, I don’t have to do it all the time. But I hope I can be with the team in every race.

What are your hopes after being dropped from Manor seat?

I hope that I can return to the circuit as a driver.

What did your parents say about the termination?

They have tried their best to secure sponsorship. But it was difficult indeed.

Do you want to say something to Indonesian people?

Thank you for the overwhelming support from Indonesian people. Unfortunately, this season has to end at German Grand Prix due to lack of funding to meet [my] contractual obligations to Manor.

WAWAN PRIYANTO | FEBRIYAN