Marussia to run only one car in Russia GP

Marussia will run only Max Chilton throughout the inaugural Russian Grand Prix in Sochi this weekend out of respect for the critically injured Jules Bianchi.

The Banbury-based marque have made American reserve Alexander Rossi eligible for the race as a potential replacement for Bianchi.

At present the name of Jules Bianchi hangs over the Marussia garage at the Sochi Autodrom, and the second car is being prepared.

But with the Frenchman fighting for his life after brain surgery in the wake of his frightening accident in Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix, Marussia will only send out young Briton Chilton.

It is understood no penalty or sanction will be applied to the team.

Bianchi’s injury was sustained after the 25-year-old smashed into a recovery vehicle removing Adrian Sutil’s Sauber that had crashed a few minutes previously with heavy rain falling.

FIA race director Charlie Whiting is currently conducting an inquiry into the circumstances and cause of the accident after a request to do so by president Jean Todt.