It’s been revealed that energy boss Stephen Fitzpatrick is leading the revival of the Manor Marussia F1 Team, according to the BBC.
The 37-year-old, who started Ovo Energy in 2009, is providing the majority of funding to get Manor back on the grid for the 2015 season.
The project is personally financed and isn’t connected to Ovo, though it isn’t clear if he will use the team as a means to promote his Bristol based energy company.
Manor, which will officially be known as the Manor Marussia F1 Team, aims to make the first race of the season with a modified version of its 2014 chassis.
It was forced into heavily modifying its car to meet the 2015 Technical Regulations after Force India blocked its plans to race with last years car – a move which had the support of the larger teams.
Manor is also benefitting from Ferrari engines after agreeing a new deal with the Italian manufacturer, despite owing £16.6m ($25.8m, €22.7m) for last years supply. It was also confirmed to Grand Prix Times that McLaren is providing technical support.
The outfit also announced its first driver this week, with Britain’s Will Stevens securing the first seat. He was previously Marussia’s test driver before securing a one-off race with Caterham last year.
Alongside Fitzpatrick is former Sainsbury and Marks and Spencer boss Justin King. King isn’t believed to be an investor, but is involved in the running of the team.
His involvement could open the path for son Jordan King to take on a test role alongside his GP2 seat with the Racing Engineering team.
