- Lotus
Lotus hopes to retain Grosjean beyond 2014
Lotus insists it is confident it can retain Romain Grosjean beyond 2014 despite the frustrating season the team has endured so far this year.
Grosjean has been unable to replicate his superb form in the latter half of 2013 in the Lotus E22 with just eight points to his name, leading to speculation he look elsewhere for a drive next season. Last weekend Lotus confirmed Pastor Maldonado will remain on for another season and deputy team principal Federico Gastaldi is hopeful the Venezuelan will not have a new team-mate in 2015.
"Romain has been part of the Lotus F1 Team family for many years, even since his GP2 days," Gastaldi said. "Let's be honest, Romain as a top, top driver is not happy with the 2014 season and this is mirrored by everyone at the team of course.
"We cannot confirm anything just yet as the timing will be right when we are both comfortable to announce something. All I can say is that it's certainly the intention for Romain to stay at Enstone and continue what has been a great partnership and working relationship."
Speaking about the Maldonado announcement, Gastaldi admits Lotus remains positive about its other driver despite the fact he is yet to score a point in 2014.
"It's a renewal of vows after a tough honeymoon if you like. Myself and [team principal] Gerard Lopez spent a lot of time with Pastor in Hockenheim, where we sat down and discussed the future which was all very positive. Pastor is very much part of the future at Enstone and it was a matter of routine for both parties to confirm that he has a multi-year deal and will be in one of our cockpits next season."
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