Marussia’s hopes of competing in Formula One this season appear to have been dashed after Bernie Ecclestone revealed their request to race with last year’s car had been voted down.

Lewis Hamilton quickly found himself at home around Sochi’s Olympic Park on a day when Formula One attempted to get back to business in the wake of Jules Bianchi’s accident five days ago.

It was business as usual for the majority of Formula One during the opening practice session ahead of the inaugural Russian Grand Prix, with the obvious exception of Marussia.

Virgin Racing sporting director Graeme Lowdon has assured the team’s sponsors that Richard Branson will remain a key presence in the future despite the recently-announced name change.

Timo Glock has been confirmed as Manor Grand Prix’s lead driver for their maiden Formula One campaign in 2010.