Timo Glock has parted company with Marussia after three season at the team, it was confirmed today.
The German, who has been with the team since its inception in 2009, agreed to leave the team with immediate effect for what appear to be commercial reasons. Last year, he signed an extension to his contract that lasted until the end of the 2014 season.
“We would like to thank Timo for working with us to reach this decision, especially as he had a valid contract, and also for the contribution he has made to our Team,” said John Booth, the Marussia team principal. “We wish him all the best for his future and I would like to congratulate the next team acquiring the services of such a competitive, professional and experienced racer.”
Explaining why they had to let the Glock go, Booth commented on the tough economic conditions in which the team finds itself, but also voice his regret in having to to part company with a veteran of nearly 100 grand prix.
“[Marussia] was founded on the principle of benefiting from proven experience whilst also providing opportunities for young emerging talent to progress to the pinnacle of motorsport,” he explained. “Thus far, this philosophy has also been reflected in our commercial model. The ongoing challenges facing the industry mean that we have had to take steps to secure our long-term future. Tough economic conditions prevail and the commercial landscape is difficult for everyone, Formula 1 teams included.”
Glock, 30, is rumoured to be heading to DTM for 2013. He thanked the team for the time he had with them, and said that he is looking forward to the future.
“I have had three excellent years with the Marussia F1 Team, during which I had the chance to actively participate in building and developing the Team in its endeavours to succeed within the Formula 1 World Championship,” he said.
“I would like to wish the Team good luck in navigating this next period and thank everyone for the great times we shared and the support I have received.
“Although it is not the path I expected to be taking, I am in fact very excited about what the future holds in terms of my own career and I hope to comment on that very soon.”
Fellow F1 drivers paid tribute to Glock after the news broke today. Mark Webber, speaking on Twitter, gave these words of support: “you’ll be missed matey on the drivers parade and drivers meetings chats. One of the good guys, and never went to your head.”
Jenson Button, also on Twitter, expects to see Glock back in the pit lane before too long: It’s a Shame to see that @realTimoGlock is off the F1 grid for ’13. No way that’ll be the last we seem of him…”.
Marussia say that they will announce Glock’s replacement, who will partner Max Chilton at the team, ‘in due course’.
